Rethinking Education in the Digital Age

Abstract

The paper “Rethinking education in the digital age” highlights the changes that took place in the education systems in Europe during the Covid-19 pandemic. The digital transformation has changed society and the economy, with an increasing impact on everyday life. However, before the COVID-19 pandemic, its impact on education and training was much more limited. The pandemic has shown that it is essential to have an education and training system ready for the digital age. It also demonstrated the need for more developed digital capabilities in the field of education and training. Moreover, it has exacerbated challenges and inequalities between those with access to digital technologies and those without access, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds. In the face of accelerated digital change, it is essential that education and training systems are properly adapted. While responsibility for the content of education and the organization of education systems lies primarily with the EU Member States, in recent years we have seen an increase in the willingness to distribute and exchange best practices on digital education, as well as to develop tools  and common frameworks at EU level. The EU can play a more active role in identifying, distributing and scaling up good practice and supporting member states and the education and training communities as a whole with tools, frameworks, guidance, technical qualification and research. The crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a growing awareness of the need to improve the use of technology in education and training, to adapt pedagogies and to develop digital skills.