What is DigComp and why is there an Austrian version?

July 2024

DigComp, or the Digital Competence Framework for Citizens, is a framework created by the European Commission to define what it means to be digitally competent in today's society. It outlines the essential digital skills people need for work, learning, and daily life, across areas such as information literacy, communication, content creation, safety, and problem-solving.

The goal is to provide a shared understanding and language around digital skills that can be used across different sectors and countries.

Austria has its own national version or adaptation of DigComp to meet specific local needs. While the European framework is broad and flexible, individual countries like Austria adapt it to align with their education systems, workforce requirements, and policy goals. In addition to the five core areas of the European DigComp framework, Austria includes a sixth area, which focuses on foundational digital skills such as using devices, operating systems, and basic software, ensuring accessibility for absolute beginners.

The Austrian version is typically used in schools, adult education, and public initiatives to promote digital literacy. It is translated into German and customised with examples, tools, and resources relevant to Austrian society. This ensures that the framework is not just theoretically useful but practically applicable within the Austrian context, supporting everything from teacher training to digital upskilling in the workforce.