The decline of German as a modern foreign language in England (a research-based article)

Gianfranco Conti, Phd (Applied Linguistics), MA (TEFL), MA (English Lit.), PGCE (Modern Languages and P.E.) Uncategorized

Introduction

The study of modern foreign languages in the UK has experienced a notable decline in recent decades, with German being particularly affected. Once a widely taught and respected subject, German has seen a sharp drop in student enrollment at both GCSE and A-level. Various interrelated factors contribute to this decline, including teacher shortages, policy changes, perceived difficulty, and limited opportunities for cultural immersion. This article explores the key reasons behind the decreasing popularity of German in UK high schools, drawing on research-backed evidence to highlight the challenges and potential solutions.

1. Significant Reduction in Student Enrollment

Over the past decade, there has been a notable decrease in students opting for German. For instance, A-level entries for German have almost halved, dropping from 3,999 in 2013 to 2,186 in recent years. Similarly, GCSE entries have declined from 36,933 in 2021 to 34,966 in 2023.
(Source: British Council, The Guardian)

2. Shortage of Qualified German Teachers

The diminishing number of students has led to a reduced demand for German teachers, resulting in a shortage of qualified educators. This scarcity is exacerbated by Brexit, which has led to many native German-speaking teachers leaving the UK.
(Source: The Guardian)

3. Policy Changes Impacting Language Learning

In 2004, the UK government removed the requirement for students to study a foreign language at GCSE level. This policy shift led to a significant decline in language learning, with German being particularly affected.
(Source: British Council, House of Commons Education Committee Report)

4. Perception of German as a Difficult Language

German is often perceived as more challenging compared to other languages like Spanish – the latter requires 600 hours of study to achieve fluency, whilst the former requires 750 (see note 1 below). This perception discourages students from choosing German, contributing to its decline.
(Source: Education Policy Institute)

5. Socioeconomic Disparities in Language Education

There is a growing social divide in language learning. While over half of private schools teach at least two languages in Key Stage 3, fewer than one in five state schools do the same. This disparity has disproportionately affected German, with state schools less likely to offer it compared to independent schools.
(Source: British Council, Language Trends Report 2024)

6. Limited Cultural and Educational Exchanges Post-Brexit

The UK’s withdrawal from the Erasmus+ program has reduced opportunities for cultural and educational exchanges with German-speaking countries, diminishing students’ exposure to the German language and culture.
(Source: The Guardian, British Council)

7. Overemphasis on Grammar in German Teaching

Research suggests that German teachers in the UK tend to prioritize grammar instruction over communicative skills, which can discourage students and make the language feel overly technical. A 2023 study found that many German teachers follow traditional grammar-focused methods, emphasizing rules and structure instead of real-world conversational skills. Similarly, L1 Research highlights that the study of grammar teaching methods in German is methodologically underdeveloped, leading to an excessive focus on grammar at the expense of communicative fluency. This approach can contribute to students perceiving German as too difficult and choosing other languages instead.

8. Perceived Lack of Practical Application

Students often question the real-world applicability of learning German, especially if they do not see immediate benefits or opportunities to use the language. This perceived lack of practicality can diminish motivation and interest in German lessons. Teachers can address this issue by integrating real-life scenarios such as role-playing activities in travel situations, or business settings. Encouraging interactions with German-speaking communities through virtual exchanges or guest speakers can enhance students’ exposure to authentic language use. Utilizing multimedia resources, including films, music, and podcasts, can make lessons more engaging and culturally relevant. Highlighting career opportunities and facilitating study abroad programs can also demonstrate the tangible benefits of learning German. By adopting a project-based learning approach and incorporating gamification elements, educators can create more interactive and meaningful learning experiences that emphasize practical language use. (Source: British Council, Education Endowment Foundation)

Conclusion

The decline of German as a foreign language in UK high schools is the result of multiple interwoven factors, including declining student enrollment, a shortage of qualified teachers, policy changes, and a perception of German as a difficult and impractical language. The lack of cultural exchange opportunities and an overemphasis on grammar-based instruction further contribute to student disengagement. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach, including curriculum reforms, enhanced teacher training, and initiatives to promote the cultural and practical benefits of learning German.

To make German more appealing, educators should prioritize gamification in lessons, incorporating interactive challenges, digital tools, and competitions that enhance engagement and motivation. Additionally, shifting the focus from rigid grammar accuracy to fluent communication through chunk-based learning—where students are taught phrases and expressions as functional units—can help develop confidence and spontaneity in speaking. By embedding these strategies into German language instruction, schools can foster a more dynamic and immersive learning environment that rekindles students’ interest in the language and ensures its continued presence in UK education.

Note 1: According to the US Foreign Service Institute, German takes about 750 hours due to cases, complex word order, and pronunciation.

References

One thought on “The decline of German as a modern foreign language in England (a research-based article)”

  1. I feel that the lack of practical application for learning foreign languages like French and German is one of the biggest reasons why they are declining. And this will only get worse, with the advent of new instant translation technology coming to the masses in the next couple of years.

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