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Global education systems are undergoing a revolution due to the swift progress of technology. In order to improve student learning, this new educational environment dubbed Education 4.0 combines cutting-edge teaching strategies with digital technologies. Few research studies have been done on Education 4.0 despite its potential, especially in Mindanao, Philippines. This study sought to ascertain faculty members' awareness, readiness, and digital competence in relation to Education 4.0 at higher education institutions (HEIs) in Region XII. The variables and their relationships were investigated using a descriptive-correlational research design in this study. Three hundred forty-six (346) faculty members who were chosen at random took part in the study by answering a questionnaire. ANOVA, Spearman's rho, and mean scores were used in the quantitative analysis. According to the results, faculty members at HEIs demonstrate a high level of awareness (M=3.94; SD=0.85), readiness (M=3.67; SD=0.93), and digital competence (M=3.79; SD=0.90) with respect to Education 4.0. Digital competence and awareness showed a significant strong positive correlation (rs=0.6539; p-value = 0.0000), while readiness and awareness showed a significant moderate positive correlation (rs=0.5670; p-value = 0.0000). There are significant differences in higher education institutions' awareness (F=1.8219; p-value=0.0130), readiness (F=3.2062; p-value=0.0000), and digital competence (F=1.8025; pvalue= 0.0144). These results imply that the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) might identify the importance of Education 4.0 and give it top priority when integrating it into local HEI initiatives. CHED acknowledges and supports this revolutionary change by recognizing the need for strategic direction, allocating required funds, and establishing policies that encourage the successful implementation of Education 4.0. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the impact of digital literacy on the digital competence of 380 Chinese university teachers. Using the Scale of Digital Literacy (SDL) and Scale of Teacher Digital Competence (STDC), the study implements a training programme based on the Teacher Digital Competence (TDC) framework. Results show that higher digital literacy correlates with increased STDC indicators. Group A, with lower initial digital literacy, sees minimal improvements, emphasising the importance of baseline digital literacy. However, Groups B and C, with intermediate to advanced digital literacy, exhibit significant enhancements in all sub-scales. The study highlights the effectiveness of tailored training for teachers with varying digital literacy levels, offering valuable insights for educational initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To describe the distribution and extent of the physiotherapy students' digital competence, using the European Digital Competence Framework (DigComp). Materials and methods: Two focus group interviews with second-year students enrolled in a Physiotherapy Bachelor study program were conducted. Meaningful units from the interviews were linked to a competence area of DigComp and rated on a 4-point ordinal scale. Results: Based on the accounts from 10 participants, a total of 208 meaningful units, were identified. Of these 155 (74.5%) were coded, while 53 (25.5%) remained uncategorised. The competence area Problem solving accounted for 49% of the instances, Communication and collaboration, and Data literacy each accounted for 21%, Safety accounted for 8%, and Digital content creation for 3%. The overall proficiency level score was a mean of 1.99 (SD = 0.83), indicating an intermediate level of digital competence. Conclusions: This study uncovered an uneven distribution of digital competence among physiotherapy students, highlighting the absence of several potentially clinically important competencies. Moreover, the students' overall proficiency level in digital competence was determined to be at an intermediate level. Deficiencies in their digital competence could have implications for critical clinical aspects, including integrating digital content in patient interactions and addressing safety concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aimed to elucidate the relationship between digital competence (DC), nurses' career sustainability (CS), and the moderating role of family‐supportive supervisory behavior. Background: Nurses' CS is crucial in promoting medical digital transformation in China. Thus, clarifying the influencing factors of nurses' CS has become a priority. Methods: This cross‐sectional investigation was carried out in Anhui Province, China. Eight hundred and fifty‐four nurses received self‐administered questionnaires, which included the Digital Competence Questionnaire, Career Self‐Efficacy Scale, Career Sustainability Scale, and Family‐Supportive Supervisory Behavior Scale. A hierarchical regression analysis was used to test a hypothesized model. Results: Nurses' CS is significantly predicted by DC (r = 0.52, p < 0.01), and career self‐efficacy (CSE) mediates this association (β = 0.682, p < 0.01). In addition, family‐supportive supervisor behavior (FSSB) moderates the relationship between DC and CSE (β = 0.146, p < 0.01). Conclusions: Our study investigates the positive impact of DC on nurses' CS at both the individual and organizational levels, identifies potential boundary conditions, and advances theoretical research on nurses' CS while providing a solid foundation for developing effective strategies to improve nurses' CS. Implications for Nursing Management: Hospital managers and leaders should focus on organizational support for nurses and their families, formulate intervention measures to increase nurses' DC and CSE, and improve their CS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of JMD: Journal für Mathematik-Didaktik is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose: A new normal regarding teaching and learning has been established after COVID-19. The present study aims to examine the effectiveness of digital technology training on developing academics' digital competence in higher education context. A conceptual model was developed using stimulus–organism–response (SOR) theory. Additionally, this study investigates the mediating effect of transfer of learning and the moderating effect of innovative climate in the relation between trainer capability and academics' digital competence. Design/methodology/approach: In total, 24 digital technology training sessions were organized. Data were collected from the 24 digital technology training sessions with 384 participants and analyzed using SPSS PROCESS macro. Findings: The results indicated that digital technology training content and trainer capability were positively associated with academics' digital competence. Mediation analysis indicated that transfer of learning mediated the relation between trainer capability and digital competence. Moderated mediated analysis revealed that the relationship between trainer capability and transfer of learning is stronger under a higher innovative climate. Originality/value: This study contributes to the literature by applying the SOR theory in the context of digital technology training, providing a novel theoretical perspective on how digital training influences academics' digital competencies. The study offers empirical evidence on the underlying process regarding the effect of digital technology training on academics' digital competence. The findings revealed that transfer of learning as well as innovative climate play important intervening roles in enhancing academics' digital competence. Higher education institutions can implement policies to promote the transfer of learning and innovative climate, allowing academics to learn innovative digital technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the relationship between access time to digital technologies and the devel-opment of digital competences among Chilean university students, using the DIGCOMP-PED in-strument based on the DIGCOMP framework. Methods: The instrument was applied to 4360 first-year students at a Chilean public university, and an expert validation process was carried out to identify relevant competences for academic training. Results: The findings indicate a positive but non-linear relationship between years of experience using technologies and performance in certain areas of the DIGCOMP framework. Although the study was conducted between 2021 and 2022, with the follow-up analysis completed in 2024, access alone does not guarantee the acquisition of ad-vanced skills across all competences. Conclusions: The study emphasizes the complexity of the re-lationship between access to technology and the development of digital competences, highlighting the importance of pairing access with quality education and structured guidance in digital literacy to prepare students for the challenges of the digital world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This systematic review examines pedagogical barriers and facilitators for intercultural learning in Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL)/International Virtual Exchange (VE) projects, as well as their related outcomes. The review analyzed 56 studies published between 2010–2022 in the databases ERIC, PsychInfo, Scopus, and Web of Science. Following the TPACK model as an analytical framework, findings suggest that COILs can have a positive impact on intercultural learning when different barriers and facilitators related to pedagogical knowledge, pedagogical content knowledge, and technological pedagogical knowledge are effectively addressed throughout the preparation, execution, and evaluation stages of COILs. Overall, the majority of outcomes for intercultural learning were positive (61.8%), but also zero results (23.6%) and negative findings (14.5%) have been reported for the affective, behavioral, and cognitive domain. The review offers pedagogical recommendations for intercultural learning with COILs, along with a discussion of strengths and limitations of the current knowledge base. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital competence development in basic education is essential. The main purpose of this study was to measure the levels of digital competencies among students in four areas using a digital competency questionnaire to improve the effectiveness of digital management in basic education. The authors used the digital competence questionnaire for students as a measurement tool, which was subjected to validation. The respondents were 323 students aged 8–14 from three schools in the People's Republic of China. The PLS-SEM-based CFA approach revealed the validity of the questionnaire, which resulted in high data reliability and consistency. Statistical analysis revealed no significant differences with gender and significant correlations (p < 0.05) with age. The students aged 13–14 scored the highest on the domains, while the youngest team aged 8–10 scored the lowest. This article is of practical value as it provides a verified tool for checking the digital competence levels of Chinese students. According to the results, it is crucial to incorporate the development of digital competencies into the elementary school settings to facilitate learning and provide children with an opportunity to achieve a higher digital competence in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Teacher training and a commitment to innovation in teaching are determining factors in the success of technology adoption processes. This article presents a study on the opportunities produced through the collaboration of the Ecuadorian Ministry of Education and the ProFuturo program, which arose during the COVID-19 pandemic. This collaboration resulted in the improvement of digital competency among teachers and pupils and in transference to educational practise. It also strengthened the existing limited capabilities for developing mass training programs for teachers in the country. The research was conducted through an online survey, with a cross-sectional, quantitative, and non-experimental focus from two data sources. A total of 3,565 teachers answered the digital survey for teachers trained using the Open Model in Ecuador between 2020 and 2022. On the other hand, 7,257 teachers answered the ProFuturo Self-Assessment of Digital Skills of Teachers (https://competencyassessment.profuturo.education/?lang=en). The results show an improvement in the competency of teachers following their participation in the program and confirm that they considered digital transformation in the classroom to be of great utility. Teacher training remains a cornerstone of high-quality education and research as this contribution proves a positive impact on learning experiences, where there was a significant transference, driven by an improvement in digital skills applied to the teaching process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study relies on the assumption that in today's knowledge society and the use of online knowledge, learning, and communication mechanisms, pre-university and university teachers, students of all ages, those preparing for teaching careers or other careers, parents, managers, and administrators have become increasingly interested in acquiring proficiency, capitalization, and stimulation of digital creativity. As such, research must provide, primarily for teachers and those preparing for this career, systematic results on digital creativity. This study aims to identify the current state-of-the-art in scientific knowledge on the comprehensive topic of digital creativity: conceptual frameworks and theoretical highlights, elaborating a model of digital creativity, and identifying and formulating future research opportunities. The investigation relies on the key concept of digital creativity and aims to cover two aspects: 1. basic meanings of the concept of digital creativity, specifying its applicability in the educational process at pre-university and university levels, and 2. identifying a set of concepts that are complementary to digital creativity. The research is a conceptual literature review, implying the use of literature review and bibliographic analysis methods. The study relies on a comprehensive literature review of papers selected from the three international databases WEB of SCIENCE, Science Direct, and Scopus from 2020 to 2024. The literature search enabled us to identify an initial sample of 1848 studies in the three databases and finally select 31 relevant articles. The analysis of the relevant papers allowed us to formulate conclusions related to the two investigated aspects: 1. The concept of digital creativity has two types of definitions—explicit and implicit; 2. The concept of digital creativity is correlated with other complementary concepts: digital competence, mobile networking creativity, multi-team digital creativity, the use of artificial intelligence, and digital innovation. Our findings support us in proposing ways to effectively use and stimulate digital creativity in the educational process and build 21st-century skills and competences for students of all ages and at all levels of education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores digital competence education by looking into how discourse in a typical digital competence framework for educators may or may not promote democracy in the way it features information and communication technology (ICT). The authors examined the Norwegian Professional Digital Competence Framework for Teachers, which is aligned with similar frameworks from all over the world and therefore offers insight into international discourse about ICT. They performed a critical discourse study (sociocognitive approach) to uncover inherent knowledge and assumptions about ICT. Findings show an adaptive approach to this technology, which is conveyed as a 'tool', 'arena for participation', '(communication) channel' and 'changing force'. Thus, there is a focus on participation in politics ON the internet. Politics OF the internet and ICT, however, is not mentioned, which indicates that the technology is naturalised and thereby kept away from democratic debate. This suggests a risk of democratic deficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To what extent does a firm's digital readiness influence its competence in implementing digital initiatives? This study employs a deep-learning-based dual-stage approach using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) to demonstrate and quantify this relationship. Data were sourced from a questionnaire survey involving 428 architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) firms in New Zealand. The PLS-SEM analysis confirmed the positive correlation between the digital readiness of an organization and its competence towards seven types of DT, including immersive technologies, sensing technology, robotics, 3D printing, digital fabrication, artificial intelligence and big data. The ANN analysis further quantified the importance of the investigated readiness indicators in influencing digital competence. The results highlighted four most significant readiness attributes influencing the digital competence of AEC firms: (1) organizational culture, (2) perception of the leadership team, (3) hardware & software systems and (4) strategy plans. The findings can serve as a baseline for developing effective change management strategies and contribute to reducing the digital divide within AEC organizations, facilitating the effectiveness of organizational digital transformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has posed challenges to education systems around the world, resulting in a 'new normal' for school music education in which teaching and learning can no longer rely only on conventional classroom practices. Concerns have also been raised over music teachers' digital competencies, given the perceived importance of the use of technology within the new educational landscape. This article presents the results of a study that examined the challenges and experiences associated with the digital competencies of music teachers during the pandemic period. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with full-time music teachers (N = 18), all of whom taught music as a subject at mainstream primary or secondary schools in Hong Kong. The findings revealed challenges and upskilling of music teachers during the lockdown period, including the technological constraints imposed by the school and the online environment, how they made use of technology to teach music online, and the different ways they developed their digital competencies. Alongside with the catalyst effect of the pandemic that stimulated their upskilling, curriculum changes in teacher training programmes are necessary to better prepare music teachers for the digital transformation of music education and future challenges under the post-pandemic 'new normal' situation. 新型冠状病毒肺炎(COVID-19)對全球教育系統造成衝擊，導致學校的音樂教育進入了一種「新常態」，令教學不能只依賴傳統的面授課堂。鑒於「新常態」下的教學非常倚重科技的運用，音樂教師的數碼技能尤為重要。本研究旨在考察音樂教師在疫情期間運用數碼技能的經驗及其所面臨的挑戰，對18名在香港主流小學或中學教授音樂課程的全職教師進行了半結構化訪談，調查結果顯示在實施新冠肺炎封鎖措施期間音樂教師所面臨的挑戰和技能提升，包括線上教學環境及學校面授課堂的限制，科技的運用，以及他們學習數碼技能的方法。除了疫情的推動之外，課程改革及教師培訓也是必要的，以便音樂教師在數位化音樂教育和後疫情「新常態」下的未來挑戰做準備。 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the digital competence levels of Lebanese student teachers and in-service teachers using the DigCompEdu framework. The study employs a cross-sectional descriptive survey design, analyzing data from 170 in-service teachers with varying years of experience and 399 student teachers across five academic years. Results indicate that in-service teachers consistently outperform student teachers in all six areas of digital competence, with the most substantial gap in Digital Resources. However, significant improvements in digital competence were observed among student teachers from the first to the third academic year. The study highlights the necessity for enhanced digital competence training in teacher education programs and continuous professional development for in-service teachers. Recommendations include embedding digital tools into curricula, providing hands-on training, fostering collaborative cultures, and regularly monitoring competence development. These findings emphasize the importance of preparing teachers to meet the digital demands of modern classrooms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assessment of digital competence for citizens could support the Education Action plan at a national level, a regional level, or even at a global level to enhance the digital skills and competence gap for work and life for digital transformation. This study applies the DigComp framework through a self-administered online survey to 723 citizens in Vietnam, using a sequential exploratory mixed methods research design. Data were analysed using factor analysis, standard descriptive statistics, and simple regression methods, followed by qualitative content analysis from interviews with ten respondents and a focus group discussion with eight stakeholders on digital competence. The results confirmed the validity of the DigComp framework for measuring the digital competence of Vietnamese citizens. Overall, the proficiency level of the 723 surveyed Vietnamese citizens falls between basic and intermediate levels, being more advanced in areas in information and data literacy and communication and collaboration, compared to digital content creation, safety, and problem solving. The results further showed that male citizens with a higher education level, working in the public sector, or living in province with high provincial digital transformation index rankings perceived themselves to be more digital competent than females with a lower educational level, working in the private sector, or living in the province with low provincial digital transformation index rankings. To improve citizens' digital competence, training should be designed that considers not only citizens' digital competence profiles but also their individual characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of primary education, students aged 11–12 years old begin to integrate digital devices and online behaviours that are more common and widespread at the secondary level. The objective of this study is to understand the factors that determine the initial digital ecosystem of students, and to evaluate the risks that these students face at a certain threshold age. The 356 participants in the sample completed a questionnaire designed ad hoc based on the findings of other studies with the same aim. The identified correlations and the regression equations obtained indicate, fundamentally, that two out of every three students who own a smartphone use it to communicate with family and friends. Furthermore, the use of mobile phones encourages young people to join and participate in social networks at an early age. The study also reveals that at this age, students use social networks mainly for the consumption of audiovisual content and not so much to share personal information of a critical nature. Finally, students in this particular age group are considered at a threshold age because they begin using smartphones regularly, making autonomous decisions without sufficient supervision regarding digital risks, thus becoming part of the Frontier Collective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In an era where digital competence is increasingly crucial, understanding the factors that influence successful learning outcomes, especially among older adults, is vital. This study investigates the impact of psychological motivation, perseverance, consistency of interest, and instructor interaction on cognitive problem-solving abilities, subsequently affecting digital competence and individual impact. Utilizing Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) on a sample of 459 older adults who have completed digital competence training, this research provides empirical insights into the learning process. Findings reveal that psychological motivation significantly influences cognitive problem-solving, which, in turn, enhances digital competence and personal achievement. Interestingly, while perseverance and interaction with instructors also positively impact problem-solving, consistency of interest does not show a significant effect. These results suggest the need for educational strategies that foster motivation and effective instructor-learner interaction to improve digital learning outcomes. The study underscores the importance of tailored digital education approaches for older adults, highlighting the role of motivational and cognitive factors in bridging digital divides and enhancing life quality through digital literacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this systematic review was to analyze pre-existing programs that address a responsible use of the Internet with the aim of managing the diverse challenges and risks of the digital space. Five databases were used to obtain studies from 2017 to 2022. The following variables were analyzed: target population, duration, content, and evaluation. Programmes included the following online risks: cyberbullying, sexting, digital privacy, grooming, identity theft, false information, problematic Internet use, phishing and social engineering, digital identity and online reputation, excessive information sharing, spam and and fraud. The need for the design and implementation of programs that involve the entire educational community and address the issues of pornography and online safety has been identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores how digital competence and digital technology are addressed in Norwegian early childhood teacher education (ECTE). The aim is to provide a national overview of the ECTE institutions' programme and relevant course plans to identify how the preservice teachers are being prepared for their future professional life as digitally competent early childhood teachers. We have conducted a summative content analysis of national regulations, national guidelines, programme and course plans by drawing on Goodlad et al.'s curriculum theory. The findings demonstrate that digital competence and digital technology are clearly emphasised and addressed at the ideological curriculum level but less so at the formal and perceived levels. Data shows that there is a need to define and operationalise professional digital competence from an ECTE perspective. Furthermore, there is a need to more explicitly describe the learning outcomes in the programme and course plans, focusing on both theoretical and practical aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated factors influencing digital competence among Vietnamese preservice EFL teachers, focusing on ICT self-efficacy, collegial collaboration, and infrastructural support. Employing a quantitative research design, data were collected from 183 final-year EFL preservice teachers across various Vietnamese universities using validated scales. Structural equation modeling was utilized to examine the relationships between variables. Results validated a four-factor model comprising digital competence, ICT self-efficacy, collegial collaboration, and infrastructural support. ICT self-efficacy emerged as a strong predictor of digital competence (β = 0.43, p <.001), collegial collaboration (β = 0.81, p <.001), and infrastructural support (β = 0.57, p <.001). Collegial collaboration (β = 0.43, p <.001) and infrastructural support (β = 0.09, p <.05) also positively related to digital competence. The model explained 78% of the variance in digital competence. These findings underscore the importance of fostering ICT self-efficacy and collaborative learning environments in EFL teacher preparation programs, contributing to the development of evidence-based strategies for enhancing digital competence in preservice teacher education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After the breakout of the COVID-19 pandemic our lives have been profoundly changed, including higher education, where a digital form has emerged as a result. This paper presents some of the results of nearly two and a half years of research conducted in two countries. The first objective was to analyse the experience of the transition to digital education, digital competencies and equipment of staff during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the second was to summarise the impact of the alternatives to digital education at universities after the pandemic. It was also aimed at describing how digital education at the universities of these two countries with very different cultures has been tackled and whether the experiences are different. The research was carried out by means of a questionnaire including 592 instructors from Hungary and 111 from Armenia. The researchers analysed the data using SPSS 28 statistical software. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted, including frequency, mean and standard deviation tests, crosstabulation analysis, ANOVA, independent samples t-test, and correlation. analyse The current study suggests that the two culturally different countries did not have completely different practices, and also the smoothness of the transition to digital education has a major impact on how digital solutions are integrated into university education in the two countries in the future. To conclude, the pandemic induced the emergence of online education, which is here to stay with us in the future to supplement traditional, offline forms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The advancement of digital technological breakthroughs in the construction industry is dependent on connecting the attributes of the intended consumers to the technologies. Thus, this study aims to look at the relationship between construction app acceptance and the digital qualities of construction professionals (CPs) to determine whether understanding the connection can assist predict construction app user behaviour. Design/methodology/approach: This study's theoretical approach was derived from the European Union digital competence model, which supports the hypothesis that the traits associated with digital competence enable digitally competent CPs to embrace construction apps. Six hypotheses were developed to investigate the theories, and multiple linear regression analysis was used to predict the acceptance of construction apps based on the CP's attributes. Findings: The investigation's findings revealed that the CP's attributes can explain at least 50% of the proportion of variance in 34 construction apps. The use of a smartphone (Mean Score = 3.30; Factor Loading = 0.609), technological orientation (Mean Score = 3.55; Factor Loading = 0.663), information technology skills (Mean Score = 3.48; Factor Loading = 0.649), information on construction innovation (Mean Score = 3.73; Factor Loading = 0.528) and interest in R&D (Mean Score = 3.48; Factor Loading = 0.531) are the digital characteristics that can essentially forecast the acceptance of construction apps. The data backs up the notion that CPs would gain digital competency before accepting construction apps. This is because a digitally savvy CP will most likely embrace construction apps. Research limitations/implications: Frameworks for accelerating digital technologies and innovations in the construction industry have been unveiled in this study. The research also gives recommendations for the evaluation, design and implementation of a more attractive construction app. This study also has implications for investigating the impacts of risk aversion, personal connection, social influence, technological curiosity and digital nativity as predictors of construction app uptake. Practical implications: The findings of this study serve as an index for prioritising digital traits for CPs and characterising a digitally proficient construction professional. The findings provide recommendations for organising, training and supporting construction personnel' digital competencies. The research is useful for developing and implementing instructional digital training programmes. Originality/value: This study is unusual in that it provides clear insights on construction apps as well as variables for building great user-experience apps for CPs, which are both limited in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Ciencia y Educación (2707-3378) is the property of Duanys Miguel Pena Lopez and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Environmental & Social Management Journal / Revista de Gestão Social e Ambiental is the property of Environmental & Social Management Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Digital competences develop professional profiles that are more and more attainable for labor communities in constant transformation. The aim is to verify the impact of dances performed in virtual environments on the digital skills of university students affected by coronavirus. An experimental design of two groups of subjects with sequel due to COVID-19 was developed. The total number of participants was 106 students of the Professional Career of Primary Education of a university in Lima. A rubric to measure skills and a self-report questionnaire were used. The experiment was carried out through the execution of a dance competition in the professional practice, which was part of the curricular program. The results showed that the gamified dances in their virtual format developed better digital competencies than the dancers in the face-to-face format. Digital dances had a positive impact on digital competences in their procedural component, and evidence on perceived self-efficacy received insufficient impact. The study contributes has reported digital competence with variable characteristics in subjects with severe and mild sequel, considering that their perceived self-efficacy develops to a lesser extent than their skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study is to determine the relationship between academic self-efficacy and digital competence in a sample of undergraduate university students in Peru. The design was nonexperimental, cross-sectional, and correlational. The non-probabilistic sample consisted of 98 students from a private university in Peru. Academic self-efficacy single-item scale and digital competence questionnaire were used. Spearman correlation coefficient, Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, and Mann-Whitney U test were used for statistical analysis. The statistical program used was SPSS v. 25. The average academic self-efficacy obtained was 3.73 (standard deviation [SD]=0.73). Regarding digital competence, the mean recorded was 72.34 (SD=11.57). Additionally, it was found that there were no significant differences in academic self-efficacy and digital competence according to gender (p>0.05). Similarly, it was found that there is a significant correlation between academic self-efficacy and digital competence in students (rho=0.438; p<0.001). Similarly, it was found that there is a correlation between academic self-efficacy and the five dimensions of digital competence (information, communication, content creation, technological security and problem-solving) in university students (p<0.05). This research could contribute to the development of programs, courses, or psychoeducational strategies for the development of academic self-efficacy and digital competence in university students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Teachers' beliefs are the main factors that promote students' growth, and are related to students' green entrepreneurship. Therefore, using 283 paired samples of teachers and senior students from 12 higher vocational schools in Xinjiang Autonomous Region, China, the relationship between teachers' beliefs in education for sustainable development and vocational students' green entrepreneurial intentions, as well as the facilitating effects of teachers' legacy motivation and digital competence, were investigated. The results confirm for the first time that teachers' sustainability beliefs are positively related to senior students' green entrepreneurial intentions in Xinjiang Autonomous Region of China, that there is no facilitating effect of teachers' legacy motivation, and that there is a facilitating effect of teachers' digital competence. This suggests that senior students in Xinjiang Autonomous Region of China need not only teachers' sustainability beliefs but also the combination with teachers' overall competence to adequately facilitate the development of their green entrepreneurial intentions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To enhance the digital competencies of pharmacy students, the Institute of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacotherapy at Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf developed and evaluated a theoretical module on digital health and data analysis. This innovative module integrated a continuous glucose-monitoring (CGM) wearable device into teaching, providing students with in-depth practical experience and a 2.5 h seminar on digital health and CGM systems. Students' knowledge of CGM and self-assessment of their CGM competencies were assessed in a pre-post manner. Additionally, students' satisfaction with the module and their perceptions of the future integration of digital health training and the role of wearables in pharmacy practice were also assessed after the module. A total of 39 final-year pharmacy students completed the module conducted in June 2024 as part of the clinical pharmacy seminar. In total, 32 students completed the pre- and post-knowledge tests and self-assessment questionnaires. Both the knowledge and the students' self-assessment of CGM-related skills after the module increased significantly (p < 0.05). Students expanded their knowledge regarding digital health solutions, in particular the CGM systems, and increased their self-reported competence in CGM-related skills. With this module, an important foundation was laid, as this is the first theoretical module including the essentials of CGM digital health tools for pharmacy students in Germany. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: No brief questionnaire comprising knowledge, skills, and attitudes is available to measure digital competence among clinical practice nurses. Objective: The aim was to evaluate the structural validity and internal consistency of the Digital Competence Questionnaire (DCQ) for Clinical Practice Nurses. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with English-speaking clinical practice nurses. Twenty-six items from an initial item pool, developed in a prior conducted Delphi Study, were included. Exploratory factor analysis for structural validity with "oblimin" rotation and a two-factor solution as well as internal consistency test using Cronbach's alpha were conducted. Results: Data from 185 nurses was obtained. The final questionnaire comprised of 12 items allocated to two factors: knowledge & skills and attitude. Factor "attitude" explained 33% of the variance and factor "knowledge & skills" 24%, resulting in a cumulative explanation of the variance of 57% by both factors. Internal consistency per factor was satisfactory, with 0.81 and 0.91, respectively. Conclusion: The DCQ for clinical practice nurses is valid and has satisfactory internal consistency. Researchers and nurse managers can use it to assess the level of digital competence among clinical practice nurses. Future psychometric validation of the DCQ for clinical practice nurses is required to allow a conclusion on the goodness of fit and reliability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the digitalization era, banks strive to implement digital transformations; digital culture, competence, and leadership become essential factors to advance the company’s digitalization. Digital transformation is indispensable in improving employee performance amidst rapid digital advancements, helping companies stay competitive and avoid falling behind fintech and banking rivals. The study aims to examine the influence of digital transformations on banking employee performance in Indonesia, targeting state-owned banks. Primary data were gathered through questionnaires involving 100 participants. Data analysis employed partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to assess the influence of independent on dependent and mediating variables. The results demonstrate that digital culture (p < 0.05), digital competency (p < 0.05), and digital leadership (p < 0.05) positively and significantly influence employee performance. Self-efficacy does not function as a substantial mediating variable between digital culture (p > 0.05) or digital competence (p > 0.05) and employee performance. However, self-efficacy is a crucial mediating variable connecting digital leadership to employee success (p < 0.05). The study demonstrates that digital transformation in terms of culture, competence, and leadership can improve performance. Self-efficacy is able to mediate the effect of digital leadership on employee performance but fails to affect the influence of digital culture and digital capabilities on the performance of banking employees. AcknowledgmentThe authors thank Universitas Sumatera Utara, especially the Research Institute, for their support. Acknowledgments are also expressed to the Kementerian Pendidikan dan Riset through the DRTPM program (number: 92/UN5.4.10.S/PPM/KP-DRTPM/2024), which has provided intellectual and financial assistance. The authors would also like to thank the Management Science Study Program, Universitas Sumatera Utara.

Background. Successful professional activity of a university teacher is impossible without productive and innovative use of information and communication technologies (ICT). This process involves not only the constant widespread dissemination of knowledge and information, their transformation into digital educational products, but also the teacher's ability and readiness to effectively organize the educational process in new conditions. We suppose the digital readiness of the university teacher should be the subject of systematic scientific analysis. The purpose of the article is to study the features of the digital transformation of higher education and to obtain objective data on the readiness of university teachers to use digital tools and technologies in their professional activities. Materials and methods. Within the framework of the studied problem, publications by foreign and domestic authors were studied; information on the research topic was collected from books, magazines, and online publications. The research was based on observation, surveys and questionnaires of teachers using a structured questionnaire with closed and open questions. Results. The results of the study showed that the readiness of university teachers to work in the digital educational environment is not fully formed. This is explained both by the insufficient development of the digital educational environment of the university and the low level of proficiency of teachers in digital competencies. Only 55% of the teachers rated their level of knowledge of information and communication technologies as “good”, and 10% demonstrated excellent skills Among the factors hindering the digitalization of the teaching process, the following were noted first of all: lack of incentives and equipment at the university, harm to health and great fatigue when working at a computer.

Abstract This study investigates the digital competence levels of Lebanese student teachers and in-service teachers using the DigCompEdu framework. The study employs a cross-sectional descriptive survey design, analyzing data from 170 in-service teachers with varying years of experience and 399 student teachers across five academic years. Results indicate that in-service teachers consistently outperform student teachers in all six areas of digital competence, with the most substantial gap in Digital Resources. However, significant improvements in digital competence were observed among student teachers from the first to the third academic year. The study highlights the necessity for enhanced digital competence training in teacher education programs and continuous professional development for in-service teachers. Recommendations include embedding digital tools into curricula, providing hands-on training, fostering collaborative cultures, and regularly monitoring competence development. These findings emphasize the importance of preparing teachers to meet the digital demands of modern classrooms.

Abstract In the context of primary education, students aged 11–12 years old begin to integrate digital devices and online behaviours that are more common and widespread at the secondary level. The objective of this study is to understand the factors that determine the initial digital ecosystem of students, and to evaluate the risks that these students face at a certain threshold age. The 356 participants in the sample completed a questionnaire designed ad hoc based on the findings of other studies with the same aim. The identified correlations and the regression equations obtained indicate, fundamentally, that two out of every three students who own a smartphone use it to communicate with family and friends. Furthermore, the use of mobile phones encourages young people to join and participate in social networks at an early age. The study also reveals that at this age, students use social networks mainly for the consumption of audiovisual content and not so much to share personal information of a critical nature. Finally, students in this particular age group are considered at a threshold age because they begin using smartphones regularly, making autonomous decisions without sufficient supervision regarding digital risks, thus becoming part of the Frontier Collective.

The article solves the problem of comparing the influence of two factors – the presence of higher education and generational affiliation – on digital competence and on the behavior of young people in the Internet space. Approaches arising from the theory of digital inequality are involved to solve it. They are problematizing the importance of socio-demographic and other population’s characteristics for the use of information and technological innovations. Another important study aspect was the theory of generations. It made it possible to identify generations Y and Z, formed under the conditions of technological changes at the turn of the 20th-21st centuries. The article focuses on representatives of Generation Z. Their digital competence and behavior on the Internet is compared with higher education. Sources of the study: a sociological survey of young people in 8 federal districts of Russia conducted in 2023, data from analytical companies subjected to secondary assessment, materials from official statistics.Education is the third most important factor influencing the digital inequality of Russian youth, two other reasons are behind – place of residence and material security. Higher education maintains its position in ensuring the digital competence of young people. However, its presence does not affect the behavior of young people on the Internet. Representatives of Generation Z, who today are still studying at or enrolling in Russian universities, are not inferior to those who have higher education in terms of the information and technological innovations level of use. Digital natives are noticeably more likely than millennials to evaluate the Internet as a source of education, self-education, and broadening their horizons. Such a request creates new tasks for higher education. The article concludes with recommendations for Russian universities regarding their work in social media that is significant for generation Z.

The article presents theoretical insight into thorough analyses of the outstanding experience and best practices in using digital educational resources by educators. We attempt to integrate these findings into training students who obtain a Master’s degree in Primary Education. Intensive use of information and communication technologies has proved efficient in preparing a new generation of innovative highly skilled would-be teachers for primary school in recent years. Although Ukrainian practice in this context is significant, however, huge accomplishments of the best world researchers still produce a noticeable impact on education advancement in many countries. The author draws attention to the relevant issue of training future educators in primary school to use digital open educational resources in their professional activities. The best practical experience of eminent Ukrainian and foreign scholars and teachers was analyzed. The suggested digital resources are examined on the field, purpose, and efficiency of their application with primary school children. The article highlights the educational potential of the popular tools for interactive online and offline communication and assessment of learning outcomes; vivid presentation of the educational content; creative thinking and soft skills development in the classroom as well as automated writing evaluation. Frequent challenges and hardships that educators have to deal with while using digital tools in the classroom are singled out and some solutions to the problem are suggested. The author points out the urgent necessity for young educators to gain new knowledge and skills for not only personal growth and self-development but also, for greater opportunities to be competitive in the contemporary labor market.

Digital technologies are the main driver of the future economy, with technology jobs and those requiring digital skills on the rise. In educational settings, there is an accelerated propagation of digital learning environments, which was amplified by the online shift following COVID-19. To equip learners with the necessary digital skills, there ought to be a purpose-built framework that can be used as a reference point. Although in recent years there were multiple attempts to develop digital literacy frameworks such as DigComp by the European Commission and the Digital Literacy Global Framework (DLGF) by UNESCO, with several other frameworks built on top of them, there is a lack of frameworks devised specifically for learners and students. This paper proposes a conceptual digital literacy framework for learners, building mainly on DigComp 2.0 and the DLGF. We use an integrative review methodology of six main empirical frameworks, developed in recent years with educational applications, to achieve our aim. We added new competencies specific to mobile learning environments and career-related digital endeavors by learners. In addition, we further tailored the competences related to device and software operations to both personal computers and mobile devices. The proposed framework in this paper expounds on DigComp and DLGF by adding several competences which are deemed essential for learners in today’s digital world. The framework can be used by educational institutes, policymakers, as well as learners to assess their digital skills and devise strategies for capacity building.

Abstract This paper aims to contribute knowledge about the influences of leaders’ perceptions of digitalisation on arrangements for leading the expansion of access to and application of digital technologies in K–12 education. Supporting the digitalisation of K–12 education requires digital competence. School organisers’ and school leaders’ digital competence and perceptions of digitalisation contribute to how digital technologies are employed in schools. Survey and participant observations were used to investigate leaders’ perceptions of digitalisation in K–12 education. The data were analysed using thematic analysis and theory of practice architecture. The results show that perceptions of digitalisation in K–12 education influence arrangements by allowing opportunities for enhanced quality in teaching and equality within and among schools. Further, collaborations between leaders, sharing ideas and experiences, and enhancing leadership are elements that contribute to the shaping of leaders’ perceptions of digitalisation in schools. This paper contributes to the knowledge of leaders’ perceptions of expanding the access to and application of digital technologies in schools.

Background. The relevance of the article is due to the tasks of digitalization of education and the focus on the development of all types of digital activities of a university teacher and is determined by the state policy of the Russian Federation in the field of digital transformation of society in general and digital transformation of education in particular. The article examines the conditions of education that are changing in connection with digitalization, and defines digital competence. The purpose of the article is to determine the level of digital competence of a modern university foreign language teacher and take this competence into account in the educational process. Materials and methods. The material of the work was the scientific works of domestic and foreign authors on the topic of research, legislative acts, electronic resources, materials of web conferences, etc. The research methods were interviewing, methods of description, observation and analysis. As a result of the conducted research, the levels of digital competence of foreign language teachers (basic, high, advanced) were identified and the level of digital competence of foreign language teachers in scientific and educational activities of Samara State University of Economics (SGEU) was determined; the skills and abilities of the selected levels were described; possible digital services for use in writing scientific papers, textbooks were highlighted and content creation, as well as for classroom work and distance learning; pedagogical options for using digital technologies both in education and in scientific research of a modern teacher are proposed.

Background. The development of digital technologies is one of the priority tasks of modern education, a crucial step in improving the quality of learning and teaching and transforming the role of the teacher in the conditions of digitalisation of education. The purpose of the research presented in the article is to describe the qualitative changes in the professional activity of teachers and to consider the "digital" roles and digital competence of teachers based on the data of questionnaire survey of teachers working in profile psycho-pedagogical classes in the city of Tula and Tula region. Materials and methods. The methodological basis of the empirical study is the competence approach, in particular, digital competence. The main conceptual documents regulating the development of digital education are the national programme "Digital Economy of the Russian Federation" and the priority project "Modern Digital Educational Environment in the Russian Federation". In the course of the empirical study, the questionnaire method was applied. Results. Theoretical analysis allowed us to state that in modern conditions the professional activity of a teacher undergoes qualitative changes. In the conditions of digitalisation of education, the school needs a multi-profile professional with digital literacy and competence. The questionnaire survey of teachers working in psycho-pedagogical classes conducted in the course of the empirical study revealed the teachers' adherence to the traditional roles of a mentor and an organiser of the learning process and the formation of competencies in the field of integrative activity (a teacher is an integrator of students' knowledge, skills and abilities). The presented analytical and empirical data are based on modern Russian and foreign experience and take into account the specifics of the Tula region.

Background. In the artificial intelligence age, it is not only IT graduates who have digital competencies, but also schoolchildren. Improvement of skills to work in the digital environment and with digital products is necessary in all spheres of life. The national project “Digital Chair” is aimed at solving this problem, i.e. formation and mastering of modern digital competences. The purpose is to analyze the implementation of the “digital department” program at the Pacific State University (PSU, Khabarovsk) and the formation of digital competencies of students as a result of participation in this program. Materials and methods. The system approach is fundamental for the research. The main theoretical methods of research: analysis, synthesis, deduction. This article is a review of the conceptual apparatus of “digital competence”, “digital culture”, “digital literacy”. It includes research on the training of 995 students of Pacific State University in the digital department. The analysis of training was carried out on the basis of the method of assesment - center. Results. Digital Chair trainees acquire more digital skills and can solve problems from a wider range of tasks. The implementation of the national project “Digital Chair” requires the expansion of educational programs taking into account the directions of university students. There is no single standard of digital competencies for all TOGU educational programs. The formation of digital competencies requires material resources and trained personnel.

Research on digital competence has been one of the most important policy goals in the area of education in the European Union for almost two decades. In 2017, two essential documents were published: DigComp 2.1 - The Digital Competence Framework for Citizens with eight proficiency levels (Carretero et al., 2017) and examples of use and the European Framework for the Digital Competence of Educators – DigCompEdu (Redecker, 2017). Despite these documents and all the research in the field of digital competencies, there is still no unified instrument for measuring the digital competencies of citizens. The problem is that digital competencies encompass a wide range of skills, from basic digital literacy to advanced technical proficiency, and they evolve with technological advancements. Researchers and policymakers face several obstacles in creating a one-size-fits-all tool for assessing these competencies. This paper expands existing research in the field of digital competence in formal education in Slovenia. Our research aimed to explore curricular aspects of acquiring digital competencies within the three levels of formal education and the level of achieving digital competencies among citizens (students) in Slovenia. The purpose of our study was to gain a broader understanding of how participants in formal education obtain digital competencies to obtain a publicly recognized qualification within the education system in Slovenia.

Abstract With the rising usage of contactless work options since COVID-19, users increasingly share their personal data in digital tools at work. Using an experimental online vignette study (N = 93), we examined users’ willingness to use a video conferencing tool, while systematically varying the context of use (personal vs. low trustworthiness work vs. high trustworthiness work) and the type of information shared (low vs. medium vs. high sensitivity). We also assessed users’ perceived responsibility in work and personal contexts of use and their self-assessed digital competence. Our results highlight employer trustworthiness as an important factor in the willingness to use a third-party video conferencing tool, with increased willingness to use these tools in work contexts of use with high trustworthiness compared to those with low trustworthiness. This effect seems to be reduced when the data to be shared is of high sensitivity, compared to medium and low sensitivity data. Furthermore, despite reduced responsibility for data protection in work compared to personal contexts of use, the willingness to use a video conferencing tool did not decrease between trustworthy work and personal contexts of use. We discuss our findings and their methodological implications for future research and derive implications for privacy decisions at work.

Digital leaders are not necessarily experts in computer programming; rather, they are individuals capable of leveraging information technology to achieve organizational goals in the current era of digitalization. This research analyzes the digital leadership aspects or dimensions of junior high school principals in Sukabumi City, West Java, Indonesia. Specifically, it examines whether the digital leadership of these principals has met the target, is on target, or still falls short in enhancing the digital competence of 21st-century teachers. The study employs a qualitative descriptive design, utilizing interviews and observations as instruments. Data were collected from three junior high schools, involving three principals and nine teachers in Sukabumi City. The qualitative analysis was conducted using Atlas.Ti version 8. The research findings reveal several obstacles in the implementation of digital initiatives, including budget constraints, insufficient digital competence among teachers, and uneven infrastructure, all of which have hindered effectiveness in meeting the targets. Consequently, the study suggests that principal support, increased teacher literacy, and the formation of innovation teams are crucial for effective digital leadership and the successful achievement of school program targets.