Education and training in the digital age: Digital skills essential for learning and for life

The Commission has published its annual Education and Training Monitor, this year with a special focus on teaching and learning in EU member states in the digital age. The coronavirus crisis demonstrated the importance of digital solutions for teaching and learning, and highlighted the existing weaknesses. The report shows that, despite member state investment in digital infrastructure for education and training in recent years, large disparities persist, both between and within countries.

Contrary to the assumption that today's young people are a generation of ‘digital natives', survey results indicate that over 15% of the pupil population in surveyed countries have insufficient digital skills. In addition, teachers report a strong need for professional development in the use of ICT skills for teaching. The report will be presented during today's Digital Education Hackathon.

Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth Commissioner Mariya Gabriel, said: "I am delighted that digital education is the lead theme of this year's Education and Training Monitor, the Commission's flagship report on education in Europe. We believe it is necessary to bring about deep changes in digital education and we are committed to increasing digital literacy in Europe. Just recently the Commission proposed a package of initiatives, including the new Digital Education Action Plan 2021-2027, which will strengthen the contribution of education and training to the EU's recovery from the coronavirus crisis, and help build a green and digital Europe.”

The Education and Training Monitor analyses the main challenges for European education systems and presents policies that can make them more responsive to societal and labour market needs. The report comprises a cross-country comparison, with 27 in-depth country reports. More information in the press release and factsheet.

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