New report redefines life skills for a Digital Age
The Dig-2-Inc project has released a new report titled, Life Skills in a Digital Context, offering a fresh framework for higher education institutions to support student success in an increasingly digital world.
In response to the European Union’s Life Skills Agenda, the report adapts core personal, social, and learning-to-learn competencies — such as self-regulation, communication, and critical thinking — for virtual learning environments. It guides universities in embedding these skills into digital platforms, online communication, the use of open educational resources (OER) , and academic integrity practices.
Based on survey data from university staff across Bulgaria, Finland, France, Italy, and Romania, the report identifies key needs and opportunities in four areas: students’ academic experiences, employability, university recognition of digital life skills, and the broader digital learning ecosystem.
Key findings:
- Reframing core skills: Life skills must evolve for digital learning and communication environments.
- Inclusive access: Digital tools should be designed to support all learners, bridging gaps in access and literacy.
- Academic integrity: Fostering authenticity through transparent assessment and digital ethics education is crucial.
- Smart use of OER: Teaching students to critically use and share open resources enhances engagement and collaboration.
- Continuous improvement: Regular feedback and benchmarking enable institutions to stay responsive to technological change.
Compact and practical, the report serves as a resource for curriculum design, institutional planning, and student engagement, ensuring graduates are digitally competent and ready for life beyond university.
The Dig-2-Inc project promotes inclusive digital education through international collaboration, involving partners from six European countries. To learn more, browse this project website or contact the research team directly.