At schools with English as the language of instruction, it should also be possible to take the school leaving examination at this level – i.e. not as a foreign language school leaving certificate, but similar to German or the minority languages. The regulation also contains details on how to carry out the new “final work”, which replaces the pre-scientific work (VWA).
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Matura changes and child protection concepts: This is what the new school year brings
As early as 2022, the possibility of offering English as a language of instruction in secondary schools was enshrined in law. Corresponding school experiments were then transferred to the mainstream school system. The possibility of obtaining a high school diploma in English as the language of instruction is now practically the end of this development. At the same time, the opportunity is created to write the final work in English, the language of instruction – this must then also be presented and discussed in English. In addition, at schools with English as the language of instruction, the maths Matura must contain information in both German and English. The oral examinations must be completed at least substantially in English (except in the other languages).
Details about the VWA
The regulation issued by Education Minister Martin Polaschek (ÖVP) also contains the details on how to process the Matura after the obligation to create a VWA has ended. Accordingly, instead of a VWA, a “final work at a pre-scientific level (including its presentation and discussion) with a final character, especially in the form of a research, design or artistic work” must be written.
Similar to before, a written work is possible “in which working techniques and methods are used that go beyond mere reproduction” including presentation and discussion, but in the future also the result of a “research, design or artistic” process or its written documentation including presentation and discussion. What exactly should be delivered is not really clearly regulated – the specifications are quite general: “A research work can be a written work describing the methods used and reflecting on the results or the result of a research process using media formats. In the case of creative or artistic works, acquired skills, design means and techniques should be applied and creativity should be shown.” When the specifications were presented, there was talk of video reports, podcasts or multimedia products.
AI is allowed
The use of AI applications – used by Polaschek as an argument for abolishing the VWA obligation – is generally permitted. But it must be identified.
Until 2028/29, another written or oral Matura examination can be taken instead of the final paper. Anyone who wants to do this must announce this in seventh grade by January 15th at the latest. The deadline for submitting a final paper remains unchanged from the VWA. It must be handed over by the end of the first week after the semester break in eighth grade.
Matura in sign language
Further change: The possibility of taking the Matura in sign language is also anchored in the new examination regulations. Since this year, both deaf and hearing young people have been able to take Austrian Sign Language (ÖGS) as an alternative to the second living foreign language, Latin or Greek, and as an elective subject. The Matura option, which in practice will only become available in a few years, completes this reform.
In addition, in school-autonomous teaching subjects, it will in future also be possible to pass the school leaving certificate in writing if a certain number of hours have been attended. This has already been possible verbally.
As announced, final theses at secondary vocational schools (BMS) will be completely abolished. At the vocational secondary schools (BHS), the diploma thesis remains in its current form – but the addition was also added here that the use of AI applications must be marked.
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Pplications is permitted and must be identified. The aim of these changes is to streamline the educational process and adapt to modern educational needs, such as integrating technology and providing more flexible options for students.
### Key Changes for the New School Year
1. **Abolishment of pre-scientific work (VWA)**:
– The obligation to submit a VWA at the AHS (Allgemeinbildende Höhere Schule) has been eliminated. Instead, students will complete a “final work at a pre-scientific level” which allows for a broader range of topics, including research, design, or artistic work.
2. **Final work requirements**:
– Students will need to produce a final work that involves research methods, creative expression, and documentation of processes. The ministry has left the specifics fairly general, allowing for diverse formats such as video reports or multimedia projects.
3. **Integration of AI in coursework**:
– The use of AI applications in students’ projects is allowed but must be acknowledged. This reflects a modern understanding of research and creativity in education.
4. **Matura examinations**:
– In addition to traditional exams, students may opt for an additional written or oral Matura examination until 2028/29. They must indicate their choice by the end of the seventh grade.
5. **Matura in sign language**:
- An important inclusion is that students can now take the Matura in Austrian Sign Language (ÖGS) as an alternative to other languages, promoting inclusivity for deaf students.
6. **Flexible examination options**:
– Vocational secondary schools (BMS) will no longer require a final thesis, while vocational higher schools (BHS) retain their diploma thesis requirements but permit the use of AI tools.
These changes aim to make the educational system more relevant, accommodating diverse learning styles and leveraging technology’s role in both teaching and assessment. The modifications reflect a comprehensive reform effort designed to prepare students for future challenges in a rapidly evolving world.
