Digital Competences in e-learning. Case Study: Ecuador

Abstract

The term digital competences is referred to the set of capabilities, knowledge and strategies that allow efficient and safe use of Information and Communication Technologies and digital media. From the educational point of view, these competences are essential for teachers or tutors to guide, support and facilitate the learning processes of students, especially when in the educational model concern is virtual. The main objective of the research described in this paper was the identification and analysis of the digital competences required by teachers related to online education. It was carried out under a quantitative-descriptive approach and the information required was obtained through a survey to 653 teachers, who applied for a virtual tutor training program. Based on this information, the digital competences that a virtual tutor must have to facilitate learning in the digital world were identified. The results obtained indicate that, besides taking advantage of the tools and aids that Information and Communication Technologies make available for them, tutors also require pedagogical and social skills that allow them to generate an environment of collaboration and a comprehensive learning.