The European Commission’s framework for developing educators’ digital competence.
About this resource
Author: European Commission
Format: Framework with guidance materials, reports, and self-assessment tools, available digitally free of charge
Description and connection to skill
The European Framework for the Digital Competence of Educators (DigCompEdu), developed by the European Commission, is a comprehensive framework designed to support educators in understanding, developing, and improving their digital competence in professional practice. It provides a structured model that shifts the focus from simply using digital tools to integrating them meaningfully into pedagogy, assessment, and learner support.
The framework is organised into six competence areas: professional engagement, digital resources, teaching and learning, assessment, empowering learners, and facilitating learners’ digital competence. These areas are supported by detailed descriptors and progression levels, enabling educators to assess their current competence and identify pathways for development.
DigCompEdu is particularly relevant for VET educators, as it reflects the need to combine hands-on vocational training with digital environments, including blended learning, e-portfolios, and digital communication tools used in real workplace settings.
DigCompEdu is widely applicable in VET because it supports the integration of digital tools into practical, workshop-based learning. It aligns with the ongoing digital transformation of workplaces across sectors. It also encourages continuous professional development for teachers through reflection and self-assessment. In addition, it can be applied across all vocational fields, making it a flexible and transferable framework.