How digital competences are shaped?

 

Digital competence is a combination of knowledge, skills and attitudes with regards to the use of technology to perform tasks, solve problems, communicate, manage information, collaborate, as well as to create and share content effectively, appropriately, securely, critically, creatively, independently and ethically. The transition to an increasingly digital world offers students many new ways to express themselves, find, and access different information and opinions. At the same time, this transition also allows for an increase in the variety of misinformation circulating. To avoid misunderstandings, or simply to strive for a comprehensive understanding of the digital competencies that accompany us in our daily lives, let’s cover the main and indispensable digital skills that students and teachers should possess. There are eight that are necessary and on which the education world must invest time, resources, and attention.

The Eight Essential Digital Skills

 

Let’s take it step by step, trying to interconnect all these skills and assess their importance in today’s society.

awareness of one’s online presence and the ability to manage it effectively. This involves managing one’s reputation and online presence.

The ability to use different devices and systems

the skill to recognize and avoid risks associated with digital usage, such as identifying cyberbullying, radicalization, violence, and obscenity risks.

The ability to recognise hacking, scams, or malware dangers and understand the necessary practices to protect one’s data and devices.

Emotional intelligence that allows for conscious interaction with others even behind a screen.

The ability to communicate, collaborate, and be understood through the use of technology and media.

The ability to find information online, assess its credibility, create one’s own content, and share it effectively.

Awareness of the right to freedom of speech and thought, as well as the right to privacy, intellectual property, and the still-debated right to be forgotten.

What Are Digital Skills?

 

Digital skills comprise a universe of technological abilities – also referred to as digital hard skills – and digital soft skills that range from computer usage to software development for artificial intelligence. They encompass relational and behavioral competencies that enable individuals to effectively utilize new digital tools: from safeguarding personal data to observing netiquette in social media usage; from online information retrieval to digital content creation. They are not a static set but continually evolve with technological advancements and will also change over time, as those considered “digital literacy” today, once universally acquired, will be taken for granted.

 

The European Union’s Definition

 

The European Union has sought to provide a standardized definition, describing them as “basic skills in information and communication technologies: the use of the computer to retrieve, evaluate, store, produce, present, and exchange information as well as to communicate and participate in collaborative networks via the Internet”.

 

More Than Just Technical Expertise

 

Engagement with digital technologies necessitates a reflective and critical mindset. Individuals should exhibit curiosity, openness to new ideas, and forward-thinking while also maintaining an ethical, safe, and responsible approach to their usage. In summary, digital competence goes beyond mere technical proficiency; it encompasses a holistic understanding, critical evaluation, and responsible utilization of digital technologies to effectively navigate the digital landscape and contribute meaningfully to society.

 

The Impact of COVID-19 on Digital Skills

 

Moreover, the global upheaval caused by the COVID-19 pandemic was a reminder of the crucial role of basic digital skills in the lives of citizens around the world. As communities grappled with closures and social distancing measures, the use of digital platforms increased, underlining the need for individuals to possess basic digital skills.

 

Digital Connectivity: A Necessity in Times of Crisis

 

In a major statement released in June 2020, the Commission emphasized the fundamental importance of digital connectivity during the crisis. The Covid-19 crisis demonstrated how crucial it is for citizens and businesses to be connected and able to interact with each other online’. This recognition underlines the indispensable nature of digital engagement in managing the personal and professional sphere in times of crisis. Looking to the future, the Commission is committed to continuously working with Member States to identify areas that require more investment. This strategic approach aims to ensure that all Europeans have equal access to digital services and innovations. By promoting inclusive digital ecosystems, we strive to empower individuals and communities to thrive in an increasingly interconnected and digitally driven world.

Interconnected Skills for a Digital Age

 

Let’s take it step by step, trying to interconnect all these skills and assess their importance in today’s society.

Digital identity is the digital representation of an individual or organization on online platforms and in digital environments. This identity can encompass a wide range of information, including name, email address, username, profile picture, biographical data, interests, online activities, and more.

The reasons why digital identity has become an important digital skill are manifold; with the increasing use of the internet and social media, and the refinement of the so-called digital use skill, people must be able to manage their online identities effectively, ensuring consistency, accuracy, and security of the information they share.

Furthermore, digital identity also has significant social implications, as it influences how others perceive an individual online. Maintaining a secure digital identity is crucial to protect one’s personal and financial data from unauthorized access, fraud, and privacy breaches. This is why acquiring what is commonly referred to as digital security and safety is indispensable.

Well-managed digital identity can foster active participation in the digital society, enabling people to access online services, participate in virtual communities, engage in professional networking, and much more.

Today, in the increasingly interconnected and digitized world we live in, digital skills are no longer merely optional but have become essential for successfully navigating through the complexity of our digital reality.

The digital empathy or digital emotional intelligence plays a crucial role in ensuring that our online interactions are authentic and meaningful. This form of emotional intelligence allows us to understand and respect the emotions of others, even behind a screen, thereby promoting genuine and respectful human connection.

In addition to this, digital communication is essential for facilitating collaboration and the sharing of ideas in an online environment. The ability to express oneself clearly, actively listen, and communicate effectively through the use of technology and media is fundamental for the success of our digital interactions.

However, in order to fully participate in the digital society, adequate digital literacy is also necessary. This includes the ability to find information online, evaluate its credibility, and create content accurately and responsibly. Only then can we be aware and informed about the topics that interest us and contribute meaningfully to online public discourse.

Finally, we cannot overlook our digital rights. It is important to be aware of our right to freedom of expression and thought online, as well as our rights to privacy and intellectual property. At the same time, we must be mindful of the issue of the right to be forgotten, which continues to be a subject of debate as we navigate the digital world.

In summary, digital empathy, digital communication, digital literacy, and awareness of digital rights are all essential skills for navigating safely, responsibly, and meaningfully in our increasingly digital world. Investing in their acquisition and development will not only enhance our online experience but also contribute to building a more inclusive, fair, and respectful digital society for all.