Self-assessment of digital competences among teacher students

Abstract

In the contemporary educational context, digital competencies are assuming an increasingly pivotal role. It is therefore of paramount importance that those embarking on a career in teaching are equipped with the requisite knowledge and skills to navigate a digitally enriched educational environment. This study explores the digital competencies of student teachers from the perspective of self-evaluation and self-development. The paper provides a comprehensive analysis of teachers' digital competencies, highlighting potential avenues for their measurement and assessment. Furthermore, the paper outlines the European framework for digital competencies, which the authors utilized in their pilot empirical research on the subject. The study analyses the level of digital competence of student teachers based on self-report and their perspectives on the significance of digital tool usage in education. The results demonstrate that college students exhibit average and above-average levels of digital competence. However, the study also addresses potential biases in self-assessment and other factors that could shape an individual's self-concept, thereby impacting the outcomes.