6/04 - OVM : Educators

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There are three types of Educators in schools like OVM: Lecturers, Tutors and Teaching Assistant

Educators at a TVET school like Oskar-von-Miller-Schule in Kassel are a critical component of the institution, providing the expertise and guidance necessary for effective vocational education. These educators typically have a blend of academic qualifications and real-world experience, ensuring they can deliver both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

Demographics and Background

Educators at TVET schools often come from diverse backgrounds, including experienced professionals from various industries who transition into teaching to pass on their skills. This diversity enhances the learning experience, as students gain insights from instructors with real-world experience in their fields.

Training and Expertise

Educators in TVET settings are usually required to have at least a bachelor's degree in their subject area, along with additional qualifications that certify their teaching ability. In Germany, this often includes a pedagogical training component. Many also hold master's degrees or have significant professional experience in industries related to the subjects they teach.

The primary requirements for TVET educators in Germany typically include:

  1. Academic Qualification: A relevant university degree in the field they will teach.

  2. Pedagogical Training: Educators often need pedagogical training, which can be obtained through specific courses designed for vocational educators.

  3. Professional Experience: Significant professional experience in the relevant industry is highly valued, as it ensures that educators can provide real-world insights and practical skills.

The employment status of educators in German TVET schools like OVM can vary between full-time, part-time, and contract positions. Here’s a breakdown of the differences, preferences, and ballpark wages for each employment type:

The above information provides a general overview, but specific details may vary by state in Germany and the individual policies of the TVET institution.


In OVM-like institutions, the roles of tutors, lecturers, and teaching assistants have distinct responsibilities and positions within the academic hierarchy. Here's a table that delineates the differences between these three roles:

Each of these roles contributes to the educational process, but they do so at different levels of authority and with varying degrees of involvement in direct teaching and academic responsibilities. Lecturers are at the top of the academic teaching hierarchy in terms of responsibility and expertise, while tutors and teaching assistants provide essential support that enhances the learning experience for students.

The ratio of lecturers to tutors to teaching assistants can vary depending on several factors, including the specific programs offered, the school’s curriculum structure, student enrolment numbers, and budget allocations. There isn't a universal standard or fixed ratio that applies across all schools or all departments within a school. An example would be as such:

This table summarizes the roles of lecturers, tutors, and teaching assistants at a TVET school, along with typical staffing ratios to ensure effective delivery of education.

Example Scenario

In a TVET school, you might see something like this:

  • Lecturers: 1 per 25 students

  • Tutors: 1 per 30 students (not all students may require or use tutoring services)

  • Teaching Assistants: 1 per 20 students in practical or lab sessions

These ratios ensure that students receive adequate supervision and support across different aspects of their education, from theoretical lectures to practical applications and personalized tutoring. The actual ratios can adjust based on the specific needs and resources of the institution.

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