In today’s fast-changing digital world, simply teaching students how to code isn’t enough. Young people need digital skills that help them think critically, solve real-life problems, and use technology creatively. Yet, across Europe, informatics education often lags, stuck in outdated methods that focus more on technical details than on meaningful application.
This is where DIGITAL FIRST comes in.
Launched in December 2023, the DIGITAL FIRST project brings together partners from 10 European countries with a shared goal: to redefine how informatics is taught in primary and secondary schools. By promoting a functional approach — where the emphasis is on the use and purpose of digital skills in real contexts- the project aims to empower both students and teachers.
What have we done so far?
The first major step was understanding the current state of informatics education across Europe. Through extensive research in 10 countries, we engaged over 1,000 teachers, alongside parents, students, and education stakeholders. We listened carefully — through surveys, interviews, and focus groups — to learn about their experiences, challenges, and hopes for informatics teaching.
What did we find? A shared concern is that today’s teaching methods often fail to prepare students for the demands of the digital age. Teachers highlighted the need for better materials, practical tools, and professional support. Students want to learn skills they can use, not just theory or isolated coding exercises.
Dialogue Clubs: Creating a Space for Change
To turn these insights into action, we launched Dialogue Clubs in all partner countries. These aren’t typical workshops or webinars — they’re spaces where teachers, educators, policymakers, and even parents come together to exchange ideas, share challenges, and co-create solutions.
By May 2025, 66 Dialogue Club sessions had been held, with more than 900 participants across Europe. From discussing how digital tools support learning to explore the ethical use of technology in the classroom, these conversations have sparked meaningful connections and provided a direct channel for teachers’ voices to shape the project’s next steps.
Building Competence and Confidence in Teachers
One of DIGITAL FIRST’s core goals is to support teachers — not just by offering training, but by defining clear, realistic competences for what informatics teachers need to know and do.
Under the leadership of the University of Ljubljana, we carried out 194 interviews with informatics teachers and analysed national teacher training programmes across partner countries. The result? Draft competence catalogues for primary and secondary school teachers, designed to help educators feel confident, capable, and supported in their professional growth.
Preparing for Real-World Impact: The Pilot Phase
Research and dialogue are vital, but they’re only the beginning. The real test comes in the classroom.
That’s why DIGITAL FIRST is now preparing for its pilot phase. By the end of May 2025, 19 schools from 9 countries were selected to join the pilot, ensuring a diverse mix of educational settings. Teachers in these schools will implement the teaching scenarios and training materials co-created within the project — materials shaped directly by the research, Dialogue Clubs, and teacher feedback.
The pilot isn’t just about testing — it’s about learning what works, refining our approach, and making sure that what we create together can be used and adapted by teachers everywhere.
Sharing Knowledge, Spreading the Word
From the start, DIGITAL FIRST has been active in sharing its progress and insights. With 51 web articles, 2 webinars, 3 newsletters, 3 educational videos, 3 podcasts, and participation in 63 conferences and events, the project is building a strong European presence. Our social media channels — LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram — continue to grow, connecting educators, policymakers, and innovators from across the continent.
Looking Ahead
The next steps? Launching the pilot, collecting feedback, and continuing to refine our materials and recommendations.
Our vision is simple but powerful: informatics education that’s relevant, inclusive, and empowering for every student.
Want to follow our journey?
Visit us at https://digitalfirstnetwork.eu or connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
