Gender Gap in Professional Digital Competence: Construction and Initial Validation of an Instrument for its Measurement

Identifier:  imarina:9452233

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/imarina9452233

Authors:  Sánchez-Canut, S; Usart-Rodríguez, M; Lores-Gómez, B; Martínez-Requejo, S

Abstract:
Efforts to close the gender digital divide should be directed not only at the younger generations, where fewer differences are apparent, but at all age groups. To this end, it is necessary to have instruments that assess the level of Professional Digital Competence, as well as training adapted and aimed at developing this digital competence, both for university students, recent graduates and professional women at different stages of their professional careers. The approach is grounded in the definition of digital competence as the set of knowledge, skills, and attitudes that enable the effective and responsible use of digital technologies to perform tasks and solve problems in increasingly digitized working environments; build meaningful professional relationships through digital collaboration; foster innovation in the workplace; facilitate lifelong continuous professional development; and enhance individuals' employability. The aim of this study is to design and validate, based on the DigComp framework, a tool for self-assessment of Professional Digital Competence to measure this construct and to propose personalised training itineraries to train women in continuing education and professional development programmes offered by universities and corporate training centres. Investigating potential gender disparities in accessing digital competence training and opportunities would contribute to more inclusive policies. The results show a valid and usable instrument that will be of practical application, both for educational institutions and professionals, to develop personalised training programmes that accompany the development of the level of Professional Digital Competence and help to close the digital divide in the different generations of professionals in a digital society.