Digital Education Action Plan (2021-2027)
European Union · Framework · European Commission
Our summary
A European Commission initiative outlining a strategic vision and 14 actions to advance quality and inclusive digital learning across EU education systems. It addresses the challenges and opportunities revealed by accelerated digital transformation and the COVID-19 pandemic, seeking to improve digital infrastructure, teacher training, and learner skills. The plan aims to foster cooperation among member states, educational institutions, and stakeholders to create a modern and resilient European education system.
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What is digital education?
Digital education uses technological tools, technologies and digital content to enable teaching, learning and assessment across various formats like online courses and virtual classrooms. It builds digital competencies for learners of all ages and gives educators methods to customise instruction and expand their reach. This approach increases flexibility and accessibility in education systems throughout the EU.
What is the Digital Education Action Plan?
The Digital Education Action Plan 2021-2027 sets out a shared objective for accessible, high-quality and inclusive digital learning across Europe to help education systems modernise. Adopted in 2020 following the pandemic, it calls for stronger cooperation across the EU to tackle challenges and opportunities from accelerating digital transformation and to provide improved support for educators, learners, policymakers, academic institutions and researchers at multiple levels.
Why is action needed?
The pandemic accelerated adoption of remote and blended learning, though this also exposed persistent challenges: unequal access to devices and connectivity, especially for disadvantaged learners; inadequate digital infrastructure in schools; insufficient educator preparation in technology; and low digital skill levels EU-wide. Significant percentages of educators felt unprepared for digital instruction, teenagers lack foundational digital abilities, and low-income households have no internet access.
Policy context
The Action Plan advances the European Education Area and aligns with multiple EU priorities including digital transformation, economic recovery, skills development and digital decade goals. A 2030 roadmap developed as part of the Union of Skills initiative will evaluate the plan's progress and contribute to building an inclusive digital education system alongside related strategies on basic skills and science education.
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Change history
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