The Connotation, Conceptual Framework, and Development Pathways of Digital Competence for Vocational College Teachers

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 7:45 am - Gold 3
  In Roundtable Session: Digital Technology in Career and Technical Education & Workplace Learning

Abstract

This study aims to explore the digital competence of vocational college teachers, propose an innovative conceptual framework, and identify five development pathways. Drawing on a comparative analysis of five influential international models, a conceptual framework was developed through a two-level comparison, concept analysis, literature review, and theoretical grounding. The findings suggested that vocational college educators' digital competence can be categorized into five key areas: Digital Conception, Digital Technology Competence, Digital Teaching Competence, Digital Professional Competence, Digital Collaboration Competence. In addition, five development pathways were defined, mapping teachers’ progression from novice to expert. This study contributes a conceptual framework, a progressive development model, and practical guidance to enhance vocational teachers’ digital competence and support national digital transformation goals.

Author

• Yihe Huang, Beijing Normal University