The quality of digital curriculum resources for mathematics in German educational policy

Abstract This paper examines the governance and quality control of digital curriculum resources (DCR) for K-12 mathematics education in Germany. It focuses on approval processes and criteria set by the 16 federal states, arguing that these have the potential to influence the development of DCR. Using qualitative content analysis, the study explores three research questions: which DCR require official approval, the criteria applied for approval, and the extent to which these criteria are mathematics-specific. Findings indicate that 10 federal states maintain official approval systems, covering digital equivalents of printed textbooks and selected supplemental materials. However, most DCR fall outside these regulated processes, leaving their evaluation largely to individual schools and teachers. The study identifies 17 categories of quality criteria, but reveals a lack of detailed, mathematics-specific requirements. Instead, many criteria are broad references to didactical principles and educational goals, leaving the interpretation and application of these quality standards open-ended. Subject-specific criteria are included but remain limited in specificity. The study underscores the need for research-informed, mathematics-specific quality standards to guide DCR development and approval, emphasizing their importance amidst challenges like artificial intelligence. Policymakers are urged to adopt clearer criteria to ensure high-quality DCR to be used in schools.