DISTANCE LEARNING IN THE SYSTEM OF POSTGRADUATE EDUCATION IN GERMANY

Abstract

The article deals with the features of teachers’ distance learning in the system of postgraduate
education in Germany. Particular attention is paid to the functioning of the system of postgraduate pedagogical
education in the German experience, in particular of two directions: "Lehrerfortbildung" (teacher training) and
"Lehrerweiterbildung" (additional education). It is emphasized that distance learning is used as an independent
form of education and as a pedagogical technology to support the teaching of disciplines. Six models of distance
learning for improving the teachers’ qualifications in Germany are characterized. It is noted that distance
learning of teaching staff covers two levels: institutional and non-institutional. The main factors of distance
learning implementation into postgraduate education system (wide access to official and informal learning
opportunities, cost savings, training, retraining and teachers’ support during educational changes and reforms)
are outlined. The advantages of distance learning in the system of postgraduate education of teachers in
Germany are as follows: lack of age, territorial, educational and professional constraints, flexibility of training;
exchange of experience and teamwork in cooperation; coverage of a wide (mass) audience; use of various
educational content (text, audio, video and graphic information); pedagogical feasibility of the use of new
information technologies; qualitative selection of basic software - a virtual learning environment;
Individualization of the learning process through the flexibility and variability of the learning material; protection
of information circulating in distance learning; the adequacy of teaching technologies to the models of distance
learning; flexibility and mobility; Legislative recognition of distance learning with state regulation of all aspects. It
is clear that Germany has its own traditions in the educational sphere, which are connected with the peculiarities of social and economic development, historical and national treasures. Understanding the German experience
from the impact of changes that cover all spheres of the life of our country's society will help to upgrade the
system of postgraduate pedagogical education, reforming its goals, tasks and functions.