Dutch people need to improve digital skills.

Dutch people still have a lot to learn in the field of digital skills and knowledge. This is evidenced by several years of research from the Amsterdam School of Communication Research (ASCoR) at the University of Amsterdam (UvA). 5,084 Dutch people aged between 10 and 94 participated.

Especially children, elderly Dutch, and people with low education levels still lack sufficient digital skills. However, there are significant improvement points for other Dutch groups as well. Young people and those with higher education find it difficult to handle their digital devices in a healthy way. All participants need to learn more about artificial intelligence (AI) and how to deal with digital devices sustainably. Here, critical information skills are essential; many Dutch find it difficult to assess whether information is reliable or not.

Deepening Session

In response to these research findings, a deepening session took place where various stakeholders were present, including State Secretary Van Huffelen (Kingdom Relations and Digitalization), scientists, and stakeholders from the sector (public/private and social). It was concluded that a national research agenda is necessary to explore a broader approach to improving digital skills.

The complete research results can be found in the Final Report of the Digital Competence Study (DIGCOM).

Next Steps

Following this research, ASCoR and the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations started a new project to monitor trends in digital competencies. A dashboard will be developed to show which population groups need more help. This will allow resources to be used more effectively. At the same time, other studies will also be considered. An integrated approach at the national level is necessary.

Testing with DigIQ

To enhance the digital competencies of the Dutch, scientists have developed the online tool DigIQ. It tests the digital competencies of participants. After completion, personal advice is provided with improvement points, including links to courses, videos, and articles. This test is intended for Dutch people who want to improve their digital knowledge and skills. For organizations and schools wishing to strengthen the digital competencies of employees or students, DigIQ is also suitable. The tool can be customized and added to one's own offerings.

Source: https://www.digitaleoverheid.nl/nieuws/nederlanders-moeten-digitale-vaardigheden-verbeteren/