Please cite this report as:
d’Haenens, L., Vissenberg, J., Martinez, D., Martinez, G., Garmendia, M., Larrañaga, N., Helsper,
E., Edisherashvili, N., Maksniemi, E., Puusepp, M., Kasemets, M., Tomczyk, L., Kielar, I.,
Krzeczkowska, M., Irani, F., Hietajärvi, L., & Salmela-Aro, K. (2024). Report on the Development
of the Evaluation Strategies Tailored to Media Literacy and Digital Skills Intervention
Programmes. KU Leuven, Leuven: REMEDIS.
Disclaimer
REMEDIS is supported by Research Foundation – Flanders (FWO), Belgium; UK Research and
Innovation (UKRI), United Kingdom; Estonian Research Council (ETAg), Estonia; Agencia Estatal
de Investigación (AEI), Spain; Academy of Finland (AKA), Finland; and Narodowe Centrum
Nauki (NCN), Poland under CHANSE ERA-NET Co-fund programme, which has received
funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme, under
Grant Agreement no 101004509.
1
Report on the development of the
evaluation strategies tailored to
media literacy and digital skills
intervention programmes
Work package 2 – Deliverable 2.2
2
3
Table of contents
Executive summary .................................................................................................................................................. 5
1
2
Introduction ....................................................................................................................................................... 6
1.1
The REMEDIS project .......................................................................................................................... 6
1.2
Introduction to this report ................................................................................................................ 6
Development of the data collection strategy ..................................................................................... 10
2.1 Collaboration with the partner organisations in developing a data collection strategy 10
3 Overview of the intervention programmes: Objectives and stakeholder collaboration ......... 12
3.1 Belgium ........................................................................................................................................................... 12
3.2 Estonia ............................................................................................................................................................. 20
3.3 Finland ............................................................................................................................................................. 29
3.4 Poland ............................................................................................................................................................. 32
3.5 Spain ................................................................................................................................................................ 38
3.6 United Kingdom .......................................................................................................................................... 46
4 Questionnaire development ........................................................................................................................... 55
4.1 Description of the different modules (A-D) and how the questions were set up ............. 55
4.2 Validation of the instrument .................................................................................................................. 56
4.3 Data collection scenarios ......................................................................................................................... 56
5 Conclusion ............................................................................................................................................................. 59
Acknowledgements ............................................................................................................................................... 62
References ................................................................................................................................................................. 63
Appendix 1: Recommendations shared with non-academic partners/intervention providers
based on the Systematic Literature review (ESTONIA). ........................................................................... 64
4
Executive summary
This report offers an analysis of the co-development process for intervention programmes,
utilising the REMEDIS Canvas framework. The framework aids in planning, refining, and
adapting interventions to align with varying contextual factors across different countries. The
summary captures the essence of the process, frameworks used, stakeholder engagement,
intervention design, implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and feedback mechanisms.
Initiating with a detailed examination of the problems and contextual landscape, each
intervention identified key challenges, stakeholder dynamics, and socio-cultural influences.
Using the Canvas framework, objectives and strategies were clearly delineated to tackle
specific contextual issues. The process heavily emphasised stakeholder engagement to
incorporate diverse viewpoints into the intervention design. Workshops and consultations
facilitated by the Canvas structure ensured productive discussions and consensus-building.
Drawing on insights from problem analysis and stakeholder feedback, interventions were
custom-designed. They remained adaptable to feedback and shifts in context throughout their
execution.nThe Canvas framework was pivotal in setting performance indicators and
evaluation metrics, enabling effective monitoring. Established feedback loops ensured
interventions were responsive to ongoing needs and adjustments.
Feedback highlighted various organisational and national context issues such as resource
constraints and cultural sensitivities, necessitating strategic stakeholder engagement and
adaptive approaches to navigate these challenges. Challenges in data collection strategies
were noted, particularly with constraints on session attendance and participant availability,
influencing the comprehensiveness of data coverage. The focus was on qualitative insights to
augment quantitative data, aiming for a holistic understanding of intervention impacts.
The questionnaire developed assesses intervention effectiveness through four modules
capturing a) socio-demographic data, b) digital skills, c) pre-intervention, and d) postintervention outcomes. Different scenarios outlined the application of these modules under
varying conditions to accommodate resource availability and ensure continuity in data
collection. The quantitative analysis (to be presented in future REMEDIS reports D3.1 and D3.2)
will present descriptive and inferential statistical findings, while the qualitative analysis will
adopt a thematic approach to interpret participant experiences and perceptions. Both
approaches aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the intervention impacts,
discussing the findings transparently and acknowledging any biases.
The REMEDIS Canvas has proven to be an effective framework for the co-development of
tailored interventions, addressing diverse needs and contexts. Despite some limitations and
challenges, the structured approach enabled meaningful insights and informed decisionmaking for future intervention planning and improvement. The detailed reports to follow will
examine further the specifics of each evaluated programme, ensuring a thorough
understanding of impacts and improvements across the board.
5
1 Introduction
1.1 The REMEDIS project
The REMEDIS (Rethinking Media Literacy and Digital Skills) project is funded by the European
Union’s CHANSE (Collaboration of Humanities and Social Sciences in Europe) programme. The
consortium involves 7 academic partners from 6 countries, along with 14 non-academic
cooperation partners. REMEDIS seeks to develop evidence-based approaches to develop and
evaluate initiatives that foster media literacy and digital skills (ML&DS) to understand what the
impacts of ML&DS interventions in different life domains are in terms of positive outcomes.
REMEDIS adopts an innovative research strategy that first aims to identify and quantify the
most salient driving factors for ML&DS from a lifelong perspective and to synthesise the
existing evidence concerning the perceived effectiveness of current interventions fostering
ML&DS. REMEDIS will pay special attention to target groups, including disadvantaged youths
(NEETs or Not in Education, Employment, or Training), the unemployed, refugees, people with
lower SES, carers of NEETs, and (future) teachers.
To achieve its aim, the REMEDIS project has four research objectives.
1. To improve existing theoretical knowledge about the actual outcomes of interventions.
2. To improve and enhance existing ML&DS intervention strategies based on existing and
emerging evidence.
3. To adopt advanced methods and to develop and validate instruments for evaluating
intervention strategies.
4. To produce evidence-based policy recommendations and develop a user-friendly,
customisable evaluation toolkit.
This report contributes to achieving the first objective of REMEDIS by developing an evidence
base synthesis using a systematic review of the drivers and outcomes of ML&DS interventions
and of characteristics of potentially effective ML&DS intervention programmes that lead to
positive outcomes.
1.2 Introduction to this report
In this report, we outline our tailored approach for each intervention programme, aiming for
cohesive implementation and integrated data analysis as detailed in report D3.2. Data
collection for this intervention spanned from October 2023 to June 2024, involving participants
representing diverse demographics. Our team implemented targeted outreach strategies,
resulting in commendable engagement levels within the selected population.
We used a flexible array of methods customised to suit the nuances of each context. Online
forms facilitated seamless interaction and accessibility for participants in certain regions, while
face-to-face interviews were conducted where digital access was limited. Modules were
carefully chosen based on contextual relevance and feasibility, ensuring a streamlined process
without compromising data integrity. Additionally, adjustments to questionnaire items were
made to enhance clarity and mitigate potential respondent ambiguity, thereby fostering more
accurate data interpretation.
6
These refinements were guided by a pragmatic approach aimed at maximising the
intervention's impact and relevance within each unique context. By aligning methodology with
the specific objectives and contextual characteristics of the intervention, we established a
framework conducive to deriving meaningful insights and actionable outcomes.
Table 1.
Interventions included in REMEDIS
Country
Intervention
Partner organisation (s)
Description of intervention
Gezinsbond, Child Focus
Individual courses targeting
parents, on different topics
relating to digital parenting, such
as cyberbullying, social media,
gaming, and online privacy of
children.
Gezinsbond
Series of three workshops aimed
at teaching basic digital skills to
vulnerable parents.
Star Cloud LLC
An introductory 2.5-hour
webinar for teachers who use
Opiq: i.e. interactive e-books in
teaching to increase their specific
digital skills and confidence in
using the e-tools of the
environment.
Education and Youth
Board of Estonia
Three 2.5-hour teacher webinars,
supported by homework and
activities, allow teachers to learn
about students' personalised selfassessment methods. The
webinars help improve teachers'
digital skills by guiding them in
using digital platforms and tools.
The Finnish Society on
Media Education (FSME)
Interventions were conducted for
vocational school students on
school days, focusing on digital
multi-literacy as part of everyday
life.
Belgium
Veilig Online
Belgium
Alle Ouders
Digitaal
Vaardig
Estonia
Opiq Webinar
Estonia
ÕPIRAAM
course
Finland
Strengthening
multiliteracy
Finland
Familiarising
oneself with
the digital
University of the 3rd Age
in Jyväskylä, CoE AgeCare
project
7
Pilot course (1 day, 5.5h)
developed to support elderly
people’s digital service use and
services of the
wellbeing
services county
information security aspects on
an everyday level.
Poland
The openminded and
creative
teacher of the
future
Polish Society for
Educational Technology
and Media, IH Bielsko Biała
A training programme (at least 5
meetings x 2h + individual work)
to strengthen basic digital
competences and teachers'
digital competence in the
creation of open educational
materials OER (video tutorials).
Federation of Universities
of the Third Age in
Poland, Polish Radio
Media Education Centre,
OpenUJ, Krakowski
Instytut Rozwoju Edukacji
- Krakow Institute for the
Development of
Education
The training programme is
delivered in an online course
format (supported by the OpenUJ
platform) covering nine thematic
modules related to effective
digital inclusion. The programme
is aimed at carers, trainers and
future geragogical staff
minimising digital exclusion
among older adults.
Foundation All About
Science. University of the
Third Age in Trzebinia,
University of the Third
Age in Chrzanów, Senior
citizens' club in
Zabierzów
The programme is delivered in
the form of two offline meetings
(2x1.5h) in which intensive
activities (including PBL, case
analysis) are carried out to
strengthen digital resilience media competence in
manipulation and disinformation.
The intervention targets a group
with low media and digital
competences or those at risk of
digital exclusion.
Poland
Enhancing
digital skills
and teaching
for carers of
older adults
Poland
Strengthening
media
competence of
people at risk of
digital
exclusion
Spain
Cibermanagers
por la Igualdad
PantallasAmigas
8
Programme (total: 8 weeks, 35hstudents: 5 weeks, 14h) aimed at
teachers and secondary school
students, focused on preventing
violence against women in the
digital context and promoting
gender cyber-coexistence. Based
on students’ agency (service,
project and problem-based
learning) to reinforce critical
thinking skills, empathy, emotion
management, and digital
knowledge.
Spain
Desfake
Verificat
Educational project to develop
students' (aged 14 to 15) ability
to critically evaluate the
information they receive through
social networks by improving
their ability to recognize reliable
sources and identify rigorous
information from that which is
not.
Citizens Online
One-to-one sessions to provide
online support for learners to
develop digital skills and
knowledge.
Code Your Future
Three-week in-person digital
skills course on how to use
smartphones in everyday life.
UK
Digital
Champions
UK
Digital Literacy
Programme
UK
The Good Things Learn My Way
Foundation
Consists of 11 courses on
Technical, information navigation,
Communication & interaction
skills.
9
2 Development of the data collection strategy
2.1 Collaboration with the partner organisations in developing a data collection
strategy
In this report, we provide an in-depth analysis of the co-development process for each
intervention programme evaluated, focusing on how the REMEDIS Canvas framework
facilitated our approach. This REMEDIS Canvas served as a guiding tool, enabling us to plan,
refine, and adapt our interventions in response to diverse contextual factors. Below, we outline
our use of the Canvas framework and highlight any modifications made to enhance
intervention effectiveness. Additionally, we discuss feedback received regarding organisational
and national context issues that may impact implementation. Furthermore, we address
limitations encountered during the formulation of data collection strategies, including
constraints on session attendance and participant availability.
Co-development Process and Canvas Use:
Problem Definition and Context Analysis
For each intervention, we began by defining the problem and conducting a comprehensive
analysis of the contextual landscape. This involved identifying key challenges, stakeholder
dynamics, and socio-cultural nuances influencing intervention outcomes. Using the Canvas,
we outlined clear objectives and strategies tailored to address specific contextual
characteristics.
Stakeholder Engagement and Co-creation
Stakeholder engagement was central to our co-development process, ensuring diverse
perspectives were incorporated into intervention design. Through a collaborative workshop
and consultations, we actively involved stakeholders at every stage, soliciting feedback and
co-creating solutions. The Canvas provided a structured framework for stakeholder
engagement, facilitating productive discussions and consensus-building.
Intervention Design and Implementation
Drawing on insights garnered from problem analysis and stakeholder engagement, we
formulated intervention designs tailored to meet identified needs. Throughout
implementation, we remained flexible, adapting strategies based on real-time feedback and
contextual shifts.
Monitoring and Evaluation
Monitoring and evaluation were integral to our co-development approach, enabling us to
assess intervention effectiveness and make data-driven adjustments. The Canvas facilitated
the establishment of key performance indicators and evaluation metrics, streamlining the
monitoring process. Feedback loops were established to solicit input from stakeholders,
ensuring interventions remained responsive to evolving needs.
10
Feedback on organisational and national context Issues:
Throughout the co-development process, we encountered feedback highlighting various
organisational and national context issues that could potentially hinder implementation. These
included resource constraints and cultural sensitivities. Addressing these challenges required
proactive engagement with stakeholders and strategic navigation of complex institutional
dynamics.
We encountered limitations in formulating data collection strategies for some interventions.
Constraints on the number of intervention sessions that could be attended and participant
availability posed challenges in achieving comprehensive data coverage. Additionally, we
prioritised qualitative insights to supplement quantitative data, ensuring a holistic
understanding of intervention impact.
Our co-development process, guided by the REMEDIS Canvas framework, facilitated the
design and implementation of tailored interventions responsive to diverse contextual factors.
While challenges and limitations were encountered, proactive engagement with stakeholders
and strategic adaptation enabled us to overcome obstacles and derive meaningful insights for
informed decision-making.In what follows, we provide an overview of each intervention
programme evaluated in REMEDIS, detailing the co-development process and key
components within the context of each REMEDIS country. Each description follows a similar
format, outlining the purpose, stakeholders, access/resources, motivations/attitudes, media
literacy and digital skills focus, achievement/engagement, satisfaction/outcomes, and
organisational/national context issues specific to the intervention in the respective country.
For each intervention programme evaluated in each REMEDIS focal country, the structure of
the descriptions is as follows:
Name of Intervention Programme - Country:
- Purpose: A brief overview of the intervention's goals and objectives; Key
stakeholders involved in the co-development and implementation process;
Discussion on the availability and accessibility of resources necessary for
intervention implementation; Insights into the motivations and attitudes of
participants towards digital literacy and skill-building.
- Media Literacy and Digital Skills Focus: Description of the specific focus areas
within media literacy and digital skills addressed by the intervention.
- Intervention Outputs and Outcomes: Discussion on the achieved outcomes and
level of participant engagement throughout the intervention; Overview of
participant feedback and the observed outcomes resulting from the intervention.
- Organisational/National Context Issues: Identification and discussion of
challenges related to organisational and national contexts that may have impacted
intervention implementation.
- Intervention enhancement/recommendations provided.
11
3 Overview of the intervention programmes: Objectives and stakeholder collaboration
3.1 Belgium
3.1.1.1 Veilig online: Intervention description and purpose
Veilig Online ("Safe Online") is a critical initiative launched by the Gezinsbond, a Flemish
organisation dedicated to supporting families, in collaboration with Child Focus, a foundation
committed to the safety and welfare of children, including issues related to missing children,
online safety, and prevention of sexual abuse and exploitation. The primary goal of Veilig
Online is to equip parents with the essential knowledge and skills needed to effectively guide
and protect their children's internet usage. For over fifteen years, Gezinsbond and Child Focus
have been at the forefront of digital parenting education, leveraging their extensive experience
to help parents navigate the complexities of the digital world. The workshops specifically target
parents of children and youths aged 8 to 16, a critical period for developing safe and
responsible online behaviours. Veilig Online workshops are organised in partnership with local
organisations such as schools, libraries, and other stakeholders, demonstrating a communitybased approach to education and awareness. These local partners play a vital role, providing
a venue for the workshops and handling logistical aspects such as marketing, communication,
and registration. Meanwhile, Gezinsbond and Child Focus contribute by deploying trained
instructors who deliver these informative and engaging workshops, ensuring parents receive
practical and actionable advice to support their children’s safe internet use. This collaborative
effort not only fosters a safe digital environment for children but also strengthens the
community's overall commitment to protecting its youngest members online. Veilig Online
targets a demographic often overlooked in the digital world. The audience of these courses is
predominantly female, with 75% participating in "Veilig Online". These participants are parents
with vulnerabilities such as a migration background, language barriers, low literacy, or low
education, many of whom are unemployed or work part-time.
The Veilig Online workshops are designed to be accessible and affordable, with a nominal fee
of just a few euros, thanks to subsidies that help keep costs low for participants. However, the
primary barrier to participation is not financial but temporal. Each workshop lasts two hours:
this time commitment can be particularly challenging for parents juggling multiple
responsibilities or those with demanding work schedules. The challenge of accessibility is
compounded when trying to engage parents from economically vulnerable backgrounds.
These parents often face additional hurdles, such as irregular working hours, limited access to
transportation, or lack of childcare, making attendance even more difficult. One of the major
challenges highlighted during the workshop was the frequent cancellation of the sessions due
to a lack of participants. This issue underscores the need to reconsider the approach to
recruitment and engagement in these critical programmes.
Despite these challenges, the motivations for attending the Veilig Online workshops are quite
strong. Parents are primarily driven by a desire to better support and protect their children in
an increasingly digital world. They recognise the importance of being informed and proactive
12
about their children’s online safety, including understanding the risks and learning strategies
to mitigate them.
There is also a significant interest among parents in staying updated with the digital landscape,
which is continually evolving. They are keen to bridge any knowledge gaps that may exist
between themselves and their digitally native children. This eagerness is often fueled by a
combination of concern for their children's well-being and a personal desire to be involved in
their children's lives as comprehensively as possible. However, attitudes can vary, with some
parents feeling overwhelmed by the complexity of digital parenting or skeptical about their
ability to control or influence their children's online behaviours. Addressing these attitudes
through the workshops, by providing clear, manageable strategies and fostering a supportive
community environment, can help increase participation and engagement, making the
sessions more effective and beneficial for all attendees.
3.1.1.2 Media literacy and digital skills targeted
The Veilig Online initiative is structured around a comprehensive series of workshops, each
focusing on critical aspects of digital literacy and safety. This suite of workshops includes six
distinct topics tailored to address the diverse needs of digital parenting:
Digital toddlers: This workshop educates parents on how to introduce digital devices to
toddlers safely. It covers age-appropriate technologies, setting boundaries for screen time,
and ensuring content suitability.
Social media: Participants learn about the various platforms their children might use and the
risks associated with social media, such as privacy breaches and exposure to inappropriate
content. It also discusses strategies for monitoring and guiding children's social media
activities constructively.
Privacy: This session focuses on teaching parents how to protect their and their children’s
personal information online. It includes understanding privacy settings, recognizing secure
websites, and knowing the implications of data sharing.
Gaming: The workshop covers the positive and negative aspects of online gaming, such as
potential for skill development and risks like addiction and exposure to online predators. It
also provides tips on how to choose age-appropriate games and encourage healthy gaming
habits.
Cyberbullying: Parents learn how to identify signs of cyberbullying and understand its impact.
The workshop offers advice on how to talk to children about cyberbullying, strategies to
prevent it, and steps to take if their child is affected.
Online relationships and sexuality: This topic addresses how the internet can influence
children's views on relationships and sexuality. It discusses how to educate children about
maintaining healthy online interactions and the importance of consent and privacy.
Each workshop is designed to be interactive, combining various teaching methods such as
discussions, knowledge exchange, and interactive quizzes to engage participants fully. While
the primary focus is on sharing knowledge rather than developing technical skills, the
13
workshops leverage expert testimonials and real-life scenarios to enhance learning outcomes.
The format is conducive to a group size of up to 25 participants, ensuring a robust exchange
of ideas without overwhelming the facilitator or the attendees.
Organisations like schools and libraries play a crucial role in facilitating these workshops. They
provide the necessary infrastructure, such as a suitable venue, and handle the promotion and
registration processes, ensuring that the workshops reach a broad audience. The Veilig Online
team, in turn, supplies well-prepared content and skilled facilitators to deliver these crucial
sessions, emphasising the empowerment of parents through increased awareness and
understanding of digital environments. This strategic partnership allows Veilig Online to
effectively disseminate vital digital literacy skills among parents, equipping them to better
guide their children in the digital age.
3.1.1.3 Intervention outputs and outcomes
The Veilig Online initiative is designed to enhance the digital literacy of parents, enabling them
to guide and support their children in navigating the complexities of the online world safely
and responsibly. The workshops focus on imparting knowledge that helps parents feel more
assured in their digital parenting roles. Here's an expanded look at the outputs and outcomes
of these workshops.
The primary outputs of the Veilig Online workshops include:
Comprehensive workshop delivery: Each session covers one of six key topics: digital
toddlers, social media, privacy, gaming, cyberbullying, and online relationships and sexuality.
These workshops are facilitated by trained professionals and designed to be interactive and
engaging, using discussions, expert testimonials, and quizzes.
Educational materials and resources: Participants receive various resources and materials
that can be used as references post-workshop, aiding in the continued application of the
knowledge gained during the sessions.
Evaluation forms: At the end of each workshop, participants are asked to complete an
evaluation form. This form assesses their satisfaction with the content and delivery, as well as
the applicability of the knowledge imparted.
The outcomes of the Veilig Online workshops are geared towards achieving long-term benefits
for parents:
Enhanced digital literacy: Parents gain an understanding of critical digital literacy dimensions
such as online safety, privacy management, and the social and psychological impacts of digital
usage. This knowledge helps them to better support their children in developing healthy and
safe online habits.
Increased confidence in digital parenting: As parents learn more about the digital
environment and the specific challenges and opportunities it presents, they feel more
confident in their ability to guide their children. This confidence stems from a deeper
understanding of the platforms and tools their children are using and the risks associated with
them.
14
Critical thinking and decision-making skills: The workshops encourage parents to think
critically about digital content and technology use. This aspect is crucial for helping parents
make informed decisions about the digital media their children consume and the activities
they engage in online.
Community and network building: By participating in these workshops, parents connect with
other like-minded individuals facing similar challenges. This networking can lead to the
formation of supportive communities that share resources, advice, and experiences, further
enriching the learning environment.
Feedback for continuous improvement: The data collected from the evaluation forms is used
to continuously refine and improve the workshops. This feedback loop ensures that the
workshops remain relevant, effective, and responsive to the needs of the participants.
By focusing on digital knowledge and critical aspects of digital literacy rather than
technical/operational skills, Veilig Online ensures that parents are not only educated but
empowered to make wise decisions regarding their children’s digital interactions. This strategic
focus contributes to a safer online environment for children and helps build a foundation of
responsible digital citizenship within the community.
3.1.1.4 Organisational/national context issues
The Veilig Online workshops are situated within a complex organisational and national context
that reflects broader debates about digital media use by children and young people in Flanders
and other European countries. Here is an expanded examination of how these issues shape
and influence the intervention. Organisations like Child Focus and Gezinsbond play a critical
role in shaping the discourse around children’s digital media use. Given their longstanding
commitment to supporting families, these organisations advocate for a balanced approach to
digital parenting that moves beyond the simplistic solutions of bans or unrestricted access.
Instead, they emphasise:
Education over restriction: Their position is that teaching parents and children about the
benefits and risks associated with digital media is more beneficial than outright bans. This
educational focus helps parents make informed decisions based on a deep understanding of
the digital landscape.
Promoting digital opportunities while addressing risks: The workshops are designed to
highlight not only the potential dangers of screen time and social media but also the positive
opportunities these technologies can provide. This dual focus ensures that the narrative is
balanced and constructive.
Empowerment through knowledge: By providing digital knowledge and tools, the
workshops empower parents to develop their own strategies for managing their children’s
digital media use. This approach respects the unique dynamics of each family and avoids the
pitfalls of a one-size-fits-all solution.
15
The broader debate in Flanders and other parts of Europe often revolves around the impact
of screen time on children’s development and the potential harms of early and unsupervised
social media use. In this climate, the approach taken by Veilig Online is particularly relevant:
Responding to public concerns: The workshops address public and political concerns by
integrating the latest research and expert opinions into their content. This ensures that the
information is not only current but also scientifically grounded.
Influence on policy: By actively participating in the discourse, organisations like Child Focus
and Gezinsbond can influence broader policy discussions about children's digital media use.
Their evidence-based approach advocates for policies that are informed by empirical data
rather than knee-jerk reactions to societal fears.
Adaptation to changing technologies and norms: The digital landscape is continually
evolving, with new platforms and technologies emerging regularly. The workshops must,
therefore, remain adaptable and responsive to these changes to stay relevant and effective.
Collaboration across borders: The issues of digital literacy and children’s media use are not
confined to national boundaries. By engaging with similar organisations across Europe, Veilig
Online can share best practices, learn from others’ experiences, and advocate for coherent
European policies regarding digital media education.
By addressing these organisational and national context issues, the Veilig Online workshops
contribute to a nuanced understanding of digital parenting. This approach not only aligns with
the needs and values of modern families but also supports the development of informed,
responsible digital citizens.
3.1.1.5 Intervention enhancement/recommendations provided
The Veilig Online intervention's efficacy can be enhanced significantly by refining its format,
increasing collaboration with local communities, and improving evaluation techniques. Each
of these areas can be specifically tailored to better meet the needs of the participants and
maximise the impact of the training. Here is an examination of (future) enhancements and
recommendations:
Multiple training sessions: The decision to shift from a single session format to multiple
training moments could be instrumental in deepening the learning outcomes for participants.
Research supports the idea that repeated exposure to information and skills development over
time leads to more substantial and lasting learning effects.
Sequential learning: Break down complex digital literacy topics into smaller, manageable
parts delivered over several sessions. This spacing allows participants to absorb and reflect on
the information fully.
16
Progressive skill development: Start with foundational concepts in earlier sessions and
gradually introduce more advanced topics, which helps maintain participant engagement and
ensures a building-block approach to learning.
Co-creation and local integration: Enhancing the relevance and accessibility of the Veilig
Online workshops through collaboration with local entities such as schools, libraries, and
community centres can lead to more tailored and impactful interventions.
3.1.2.1 Alle Ouders Digitaal Vaardig: Intervention description and purpose
The "Alle ouders digitaal vaardig" (AODV) intervention programme developed by Gezinsbond
is designed specifically for parents in Flanders, Belgium, who are identified as having low digital
skills. The programme is committed to enhancing the digital skills of parents, enabling them
to use these technologies effectively in their everyday lives. This includes navigating online
platforms, understanding digital security, and using digital tools to manage family logistics. It
also aims to empower parents to seek and use support when facing digital challenges. This
involves educating them on how to identify and approach the right resources or organisations
for help and encouraging them to build the confidence necessary to ask for assistance.
Ensuring that participants have access to the necessary resources is crucial for the success of
the AODV programme, which provides participants with access to internet connectivity during
the workshops. This not only facilitates practical learning but also ensures that lack of access
at home is not a barrier. AODV supplies a range of learning materials, including tutorials,
guides, and online resources, tailored to the learning pace and style of adults with low initial
digital skills and often low literacy levels in general. Gezinsbond collaborates with local
libraries, community centres, and educational institutions to host training sessions and provide
ongoing support, making resources more accessible to a broader audience.
Many participants are motivated by the desire to become more independent in managing
digital aspects of their daily lives, such as online banking, shopping, or communicating with
schools. Parents are often driven by the wish to engage more fully in their children’s education
and social activities, which are increasingly mediated through digital platforms. The
programme addresses common fears and reservations about technology, such as concerns
about privacy, fear of making mistakes, and feeling overwhelmed by the fast pace of
technological change. AODV fosters a supportive community atmosphere where parents can
share experiences and learn from each other, reducing the stigma or embarrassment they may
feel about their skill levels. By focusing on these comprehensive aspects, the AODV
programme not only equips parents with essential digital skills but also enhances their
confidence and motivation to use these skills actively. This holistic approach ensures that the
benefits of the programme extend beyond individual participants, potentially impacting their
families and wider communities.
3.1.2.2 Media literacy and digital skills targeted
The "Alle ouders digitaal vaardig" (AODV) programme is thoughtfully structured into a series
of three workshops, spread over three weeks, with each session lasting two hours. Designed
17
to accommodate small groups, each workshop hosts between five and eight participants,
fostering an intimate and supportive learning environment that encourages active
participation and personalised attention.
Workshop 1: Introduction and Assessment
The first workshop serves as the foundational session where the facilitator and participants get
acquainted. The primary goal during this initial meeting is to understand each participant's
digital proficiency and their specific learning objectives. Through engaging in simple exercises,
the facilitator assesses the participants' current digital skills levels. This assessment allows the
facilitator to tailor the following sessions more effectively to meet the group’s needs. This
session sets the tone for the workshops, establishing a comfortable environment where
participants can openly discuss their digital challenges and aspirations.
Workshop 2: Building Core Skills
In the second workshop, the focus shifts to imparting essential concepts of media literacy and
foundational digital skills. This session is crucial for equipping participants with the knowledge
needed to navigate the digital world more effectively. The facilitator introduces topics such as
internet safety, understanding digital content, and the basics of using digital tools and
platforms. This workshop aims to build a solid base of knowledge that empowers participants
to interact with digital media confidently and responsibly.
Workshop 3: Customisation and Continuing Support
The final workshop is highly customised to address the specific needs that emerged from
earlier sessions. This session is participant-driven, with the facilitator working closely with
attendees to delve deeper into particular areas of interest or difficulty identified through the
course. It also focuses on practical application, where participants practice the skills they’ve
learned and explore scenarios that they might encounter in their everyday digital interactions.
Additionally, this workshop provides crucial guidance on where participants can find further
help and resources once the workshops conclude, ensuring they feel supported in continuing
their digital literacy journey beyond the classroom.
This structured approach not only facilitates a gradual and thorough learning process but also
ensures that each participant can progress at a pace that suits their individual needs. By the
end of the three weeks, participants are not only more knowledgeable but also more confident
in their ability to use digital tools effectively and safely in their daily lives.
3.1.2.3 Intervention outputs and outcomes
The Veilig Online workshops implement a structured approach to evaluating their
effectiveness, employing both quick and comprehensive tools to capture participant feedback
and measure the workshops' outcomes. This systematic evaluation process is integral to
understanding the impact of the intervention on the participants and to further refine the
workshop content and delivery.
18
At the end of the first and second workshops, the organisation has incorporated a brief
evaluation period, lasting approximately 2-3 minutes. During these moments, Mentimeter, an
interactive presentation software, is used to quickly gather real-time feedback from
participants. This tool allows attendees to respond to questions via their smartphones or
tablets, providing immediate insights into their understanding and satisfaction with the
workshop content up to that point. The use of Mentimeter is particularly effective for gauging
immediate reactions and for its ease of use, which encourages higher participation rates
among attendees.
The final workshop includes a more detailed evaluation session, which extends for about 7
minutes. For this thorough assessment, Google Forms is employed to collect more in-depth
feedback from participants. This platform allows for the creation of detailed surveys that can
include a range of question types, from multiple-choice to open-ended responses, enabling
the organisation to gather data on various aspects of the workshop experience. This data is
crucial for assessing the overall impact of the workshop series and identifying areas for
improvement.
These evaluation moments are strategically placed to ensure that the organisation can monitor
the effectiveness of the workshop content and the facilitation methods throughout the series.
The feedback collected through both Mentimeter and Google Forms is analysed to make any
necessary adjustments to the workshops, enhancing their relevance and effectiveness for
future iterations of new, similar workshops. This ongoing evaluation process not only helps in
fine-tuning the intervention but also ensures that the workshops continue to meet the
evolving needs and expectations of the participants, ultimately leading to a more informed
and digitally competent parent community.
3.1.2.4 Organisational/national context issues
The Alle ouders digitaal vaardig (AODV) intervention was a noteworthy project, albeit a
temporary one, that was primarily funded by the Flemish government. This funding
arrangement meant that the project had a constrained operational timeline, running only from
October to December 2023. Within this brief period, AODV faced numerous challenges,
including many cancellations which impacted the continuity and potential outreach of the
program. The temporary nature of AODV underlined a critical issue within the organisational
and national context—sustainability of initiatives aimed at improving digital literacy among
parents with low digital skills. The limited duration and funding of such projects raise concerns
about their long-term impact and the ability of the participants to continue improving their
skills without ongoing support. Furthermore, being a government-funded initiative, AODV was
subject to fluctuations in policy and funding priorities. This dependency means that without a
consistent commitment from the government or the acquisition of alternative funding sources,
the continuation of such beneficial programmes remains uncertain.
The organisational framework of AODV, managed by Gezinsbond with the support of the
Flemish government, highlighted the importance of collaboration between non-profit
organisations and governmental bodies in addressing digital literacy. However, it also brought
to light the need for a more sustainable approach that does not rely solely on temporary
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projects. For future initiatives, securing stable funding, perhaps through partnerships with
private sectors or long-term government grants, is vital. Moreover, the national context of
increasing digitisation and the push towards integrating digital competence of parents makes
programmes like AODV essential. The Flemish government's support for such initiatives is
crucial not only for their initiation but also for their sustained operation, ensuring that all
community members can benefit from the digital era.
3.1.2.5 Intervention enhancement/recommendations provided
To optimise the effectiveness of the Veilig Online workshops, it is essential to engage
comprehensively with the communities served, starting with conducting needs assessments in
collaboration with local partners. These assessments provide vital insights into specific
community concerns and gaps in digital literacy, allowing for the customisation of workshop
content to address the most pressing needs directly. Furthermore, enlisting local champions—
respected and well-known figures within the community—to promote and deliver the
workshops can significantly increase trust and encourage higher attendance. Regularly
soliciting feedback from community members and stakeholders is another critical strategy.
This continuous input helps refine the content and delivery methods of the workshops to
better suit local preferences and conditions, ensuring that the program remains relevant and
impactful. The evaluation and adaptation of the workshops are also crucial for their success.
Implementing ongoing evaluation processes at various points during the intervention, not just
at its conclusion, helps measure knowledge acquisition and shifts in attitudes effectively. These
evaluations include both pre- and post-session assessments. Moreover, using visual aids and
infographics can greatly enhance understanding and overcome language barriers, making
complex information more accessible and engaging. Adaptive learning models are integral to
the programme's agility. The data gathered from continuous evaluations should be used to
make immediate adjustments to the workshop structure, content, or delivery methods. This
adaptability ensures that the intervention remains effective and responsive to the evolving
needs of participants, thus maintaining its relevance and maximising its impact in fostering
digital literacy.
3.2 Estonia
This section provides an overview of a webinar series facilitated by the Education and Youth
Board (HARNO), a division of the Ministry of Education and Research. It outlines the webinars'
key goals, participation incentives, necessary resources, outcomes, and associated challenges.
The concluding part discusses enhancements made to improve the intervention's
effectiveness. HARNO plays a crucial role in implementing Estonian education and youth
policy, spanning from primary to higher education. They promote high-quality, modern, and
accessible education in Estonia, helping individuals to craft personalised professional
development paths.
3.2.1.1 ÕPIRAAM webinar series for teachers: Intervention description and purpose
ÕPIRAAM, or the Teaching and Learning Framework, is a practical tool designed to enhance
educational effectiveness. It guides teachers in crafting secure, efficient, and innovative
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learning experiences across five key areas: effective learning and motivation, mental and
physical health, digital competencies, and compliant instructional resources. The framework
helps teachers address contemporary educational challenges, balancing student well-being
with academic progress. Additionally, the intervention integrates online testing with ÕPIRAAM
to improve digital learning experiences through well-designed assessments. The intervention
includes six structured components:
Contact seminar: An introductory session that provides a foundational understanding of the
topics.
Independent work 1: Participants explore the ÕPIRAAM learning framework on their own.
Independent work 2: Trial of self-monitoring tests with students to evaluate effectiveness.
Intermediate seminar: A session for reflecting on progress and discussing challenges
encountered.
Independent work 3: Participants analyse test results to enhance data-driven decisionmaking.
Contact seminar for feedback: A final meeting to exchange insights and gather feedback for
ongoing refinement.
The intervention is designed to equip educators with the skills and resources necessary to
maximise the benefits of digital self-assessment for learners. It trains teachers to use digital
tools and platforms that enable students to perform self-assessments and reflect on their
educational progress. The focus extends beyond simply administering digital self-assessment
tests; it also includes aligning these assessments with educational objectives. This approach
fosters a personalised, informed learning experience, ultimately improving learning outcomes.
At the time of intervention, participants must be engaged in teaching as the course includes
practical assignments that must be implemented in a classroom setting. Additionally, they
must have access to a computer with internet connectivity, a Google account, and the Zoom
application for active engagement. The intervention does not supply additional devices or
services, as teachers typically have these resources available at their schools. There are no
prerequisites or participation fees required to join the course.
Even though the individual teachers' motivation to participate in the professional development
activities administered by HARNO varies, it is centred around several key factors:
●
●
●
Skill enhancement: With the evolving landscape of education technology and
methodologies, teachers are motivated to update their skills to deliver better quality
education.
Networking opportunities: Participation in HARNO's activities provides teachers
valuable networking opportunities, allowing them to connect with peers, share
experiences, and collaborate on innovative teaching methods.
Incentives offered: HARNO offers free access to the intervention. Additionally,
participants are incentivised with certificates of participation, validating their enhanced
skills and knowledge.
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●
●
●
●
Interest in specific topics: HARNO tries to offer activities that align with teachers’
specific interests or areas they wish to improve, whether it is digital literacy, subjectspecific teaching methods, or student engagement strategies.
Collaborative learning environment: The intervention fosters a collaborative learning
environment. Teachers value the opportunity to learn from each other's experiences
and perspectives.
Easily accessible: the intervention is free and web-based, so it’s easy to take part in.
Career advancement: Many Estonian teachers see professional development as a
pathway to career advancement and enhancing their teaching credentials. Participation
in the ÕPIRAAM intervention and enhancement of digital competences may contribute
to the teacher’s individual e-portfolio en route to earning an occupational qualification
certificate for teaching per the requirements of the national occupational qualification
standard.
Additionally, certain negative motivators can prompt teachers to participate in professional
development, particularly those focusing on digital skills and media literacy. These motivators
include:
Awareness of inadequate technology skills: Recognising personal gaps in digital skills drives
teachers to seek professional development to boost their competence and confidence in their
roles.
Fear of falling behind: Rapid technological advancements may create a sense of urgency,
pushing teachers to update their skills to keep up with peers and meet institutional
expectations.
Professional expectations: The increasing importance of digital literacy in education compels
teachers to adopt technology-enhanced teaching methods to align with modern educational
standards.
Overall, while the motivations may vary among Estonian teachers, the combination of career
and qualification advancement opportunities, skill enhancement, networking, and the
incentives provided by HARNO is a compelling factor for teachers to participate actively in the
given intervention.
3.2.1.2 Media literacy and digital skills targeted
The HARNO Intervention consists of the following elements aligned with DigCompEDU
(DigCompEdu, 2017), which is the framework describing what it means for educators to be
digitally competent:
● Technical and operational skills
○ Teachers learn to use various online self-assessment platforms such as Curipod,
Quiz, Kahoot, Conker, Gibbly.
○ Teachers learn to use AI tools in preparing tests (Curipod, Quizz, ChatGPT,
Copilot)
● Information navigation and processing
○ Working through the methodology of Õpiraam (reading academic articles)
22
○ Developing skills to efficiently locate, evaluate, and utilise digital information
for learning
● Content creation and production
○ Designing and implementing lessons by incorporating new knowledge
○ Creating quizzes and self-assessment tests using digital tools such as Kahoot
and Quizlet
● Communication and interaction techniques
○ Analysing practical experiences for homework
○ Creating presentations to share insights with peers
○ Using Zoom for virtual meetings (annotation, breakout rooms, polls)
○ Engaging in online group chats
○ Collaborating through Google Docs to share files, and provide feedback
3.2.1.3 Intervention outputs and outcomes
The HARNO intervention, while focusing on enabling teachers to efficiently integrate in their
instructional process students’ digital self-assessment methods/tools, at the same time, fosters
teachers ML and DS competence. The given intervention benefits teachers and (indirectly) their
students in the following way:
● Increased confidence in digital skills:
○ Teachers feel more assured using a variety of digital tools.
○ Teachers adeptly create digital content, in particular, learner self-assessment
●
●
●
●
tests and quizzes.
Enhanced communication and collaboration through digital media:
○ Teachers engage in effective information exchange via video communication
platforms such as Zoom.
○ Teachers provide feedback efficiently through digital shared documents such
as Google Docs.
Feedback and personalisation facilitated by digital resources:
○ Enhanced feedback loops for continuous professional development.
○ Teachers are equipped with skills to select and integrate diverse digital learning
materials, such as interactive tools for self-assessment tests, enabling students
to engage in reflection and self-development.
Innovative digital learning experiences:
○ Teachers are equipped with the skills to create personalised and innovative
digital learning experiences for their students
○ Technologically enhanced classroom climate is established, leading to greater
learner engagement.
Mental health and well-being:
○ Teachers feel more empowered, positively affecting their self-confidence and
reducing their technology-use-related anxiety.
○ Supportive and trusting relationships among teachers and their students are
established.
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● Professional growth and networking:
○ New professional connections with colleagues from various schools are built
digitally, fostering collaboration and sharing best practices.
○ Teachers acquire new knowledge and skills, enabling them to use pedagogically
informed digital tools more efficiently for learners’ self-assessment.
○ Teachers practice technologically-enhanced ways of collaboration with their
colleagues.
HARNO benefits from improved educational practices and teacher development resulting
from the intervention. The University of Tartu provides expertise, resources, and academic
guidance to support this initiative. Below is the list of outcomes of the intervention:
● Enhanced teaching practices: Teachers improve their instructional methods,
●
●
●
●
●
bolstering effectiveness.
Digital competence: Teachers gain confidence and proficiency in using digital tools.
Collaboration: Digital platforms foster seamless communication and collaboration
among educators.
Personalised learning: Integration of digital resources enables tailored learning
experiences for students.
Innovation: Teachers embrace innovative digital teaching methods.
Professional growth: Reduced anxiety and networking opportunities support
continuous learning and knowledge sharing among educators.
3.2.1.4 Organisational/national context issues
Within the REMEDIS intervention enhancement initiative, many of the recommendations
derived from the ML and DS literature review (Vissenberg et al., 2023) had already been
implemented by HARNO. As a result, there was minimal need for co-development in this area.
The intervention provider, however, did consider the recommendations (see Appendix 1) very
valuable for less experienced educators/trainers as a checklist to make sure their courses or
interventions on media literacy and digital skills are in line with research.
Additionally, in general, there is a reluctance among teachers in Estonia to participate in
intervention evaluations. This hesitancy stems from their already overloaded schedules, time
constraints, and a perceived lack of direct benefits from the evaluation. Consequently, such
limited engagement leads to insufficient interest and reduced participation in the intervention.
The limited quantitative data available after the intervention studies hinders thorough data
analysis and a comprehensive evaluation of the interventions. The intervention provider also
noted that the instrument used for evaluation in REMEDIS was not in line with the specific
ÕPIRAAM intervention in their opinion. Intervention providers’ personal appeals and
arguments in favour of providing valuable data for research (while keeping participation
voluntary and all responses anonymous) were, thus, key to establishing a trusting relationship
with the participants and an adequate response rate. However, there was no negative feedback
regarding the instrument or data collection from the participants.
Moreover, intervention providers hesitate to permit extensive researcher observations, fearing
they may disrupt the instructional process and group dynamics. Additionally, both providers
24
and participants are rather reluctant to engage in lengthy interviews due to time constraints,
or simply a lack of motivation. Consequently, these factors limit the collection of both
qualitative observational and interview data, impacting the depth and comprehensiveness of
the evaluation.
3.2.1.5 Intervention enhancements/recommendations provided
This intervention has undergone several foundational improvements, initially suggested in our
systematic evidence review, being integrated over time. An impactful enhancement by the
ÕPIRAAM provider was the introduction of peer feedback sessions during their webinars,
enhancing individual work and fostering collaboration. This feature was so beneficial that it
was added as an assignment in the course, receiving positive feedback from participants who
valued the peer insights and collaboration during their final presentations. To increase
engagement and measure proficiency with digital tools, the provider used interactive Zoom
polls, effectively assessing participants' skills and promoting active involvement. Additionally,
to ensure thorough evaluation and address any recurring issues, we recommended the
inclusion of external experts using established evaluation methods for a comprehensive
assessment of the intervention's effectiveness.
3.2.2.1 Star Cloud LLC: Opiq webinar intervention description and purpose
This document outlines the webinar conducted by Star Cloud LLC in Estonia, which primarily
focuses on the pedagogical use of digital resources, with a secondary emphasis on Media
Literacy and Digital Skills. The content covers the webinar's main objectives, participation
incentives, necessary resources, achieved outcomes, and challenges encountered during the
intervention. The concluding section details specific enhancements that were implemented
to improve the results of the intervention. Star Cloud LLC is the developer of Opiq software &
services. Opiq is a cloud-based learning environment that contains fully digitised high quality
textbooks from leading Estonian educational publishers with interactive assignments, selftesting, and other assessment possibilities, including both immediate automatic feedback and
teacher feedback. Opiq materials are (Estonian) curriculum-aligned resources that are kept upto-date. The given digital materials help make the school instructional process innovative and
interactive. Opiq textbooks were also widely used in Estonian schools during COVID-19
pandemic for e-lessons. The online resources adhere to the latest cloud technologies and
security protocols in alignment with the privacy standards set forth by the European General
Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Star Cloud LLC also offers professional development
activities that support teachers in adopting and integrating Opiq digital resources in their
teaching in an efficient manner. Opiq is operating in six countries including Finland and
Lithuania. Star Cloud is a partner for educational content providers, schools and the public
sector since 2014.
Opiq webinars are scheduled regularly to introduce new functionalities within the Opiq
environment, helping teachers enhance their instructional techniques. Prior to the autumn
session, Starcloud LLC conducts a survey to determine which features teachers currently use
and how they wish to expand their skills using these tools. This feedback informs the structure
of the webinars. The intervention consists of a 1.5- to 2-hour interactive webinar, offered on
three different dates, where the Opiq teacher interface was showcased to in-service teachers.
25
These participants are predominantly new to the Opiq platform or interested in adopting it for
their schools. The providers tailor the webinar content based on information collected from
the participants ahead of time. To ensure the webinar addresses specific needs, participants
are encouraged to submit questions beforehand, allowing for a focused discussion on topics
requiring more extensive coverage.
The intervention is designed to empower in-service teachers with the skills to effectively use
digital instructional and assessment resources. Through the interactive webinar, teachers are
guided in seamlessly integrating digital materials, textbooks, and self-assessment tests into
their teaching practice. Using Opiq materials not only provides teachers with secure and highquality digital resources, which positively affects their instructional quality but also streamlines
their lesson preparation process.
The Opiq platform further supports teachers in conducting ongoing formative assessments
and making data-driven pedagogical decisions. Through digital tracking, teachers can closely
monitor student progress, provide timely feedback, and gain insights into individual and class
performance, facilitating a more personalised learning experience. For students, active use of
digital resources eliminates the need to carry heavy textbooks, promoting a more physically
comfortable learning environment. Consequently, learners benefit from a technologically
advanced and pedagogically enriched educational experience, improving their physical wellbeing and engagement in the instructional process.
Participants need Internet access, a computer, and the Zoom app to attend the online webinar.
As part of the intervention, no additional devices are provided, as teachers typically have these
resources at school. There are no prerequisites or participation fees required for enrollment.
However, since the Opiq platform itself is not a free resource, not all participants have access
before or after the intervention. This results in restricted accessibility.
Participating in the Opiq webinar/intervention offers several motivational benefits for
educators:
●
●
●
●
Individualised feedback: Participants are encouraged to ask specific questions about
using Opiq materials in their teaching practices, ensuring tailored guidance and
support.
Access to readily available quality and safe digital resources: The intervention
offers high-quality, secure digital resources like interactive workbooks, learning
materials, and auto-graded tests, enhancing teaching and learning while reducing
assessment time for teachers and students.
Increased efficiency of instructional practice: Teachers can monitor individual
student progress through robust usage statistics, fostering a more personalised and
dynamic classroom learning environment. This data-driven approach positively
impacts classroom dynamics and instructional effectiveness.
Free access to the webinar: Participants can join the webinar at no cost, making the
intervention accessible to all interested educators without financial barriers.
26
3.2.2.2 Media literacy and digital skills targeted
The webinar supports and encourages educators to practise media literacy and digital skills.
The main components covered include:
●
●
●
Technical and operational: teachers are encouraged to actively employ technology
to access and use Opiq materials.
Information navigation: teachers are given access to readily available quality and safe
digital resources, which they can navigate to identify relevant instructional resources.
Digital communication: the Opiq platform allows seamless digital communication
and material sharing (e.g., by allowing connections to communication platforms such
as Stuudium and E-kool). Additionally, teachers further improve their digital
communication competence by participating in the Oqpiq webinar through Zoom.
3.2.2.3 Intervention outputs and outcomes
The Oqiq webinar is designed to bring about a range of positive developments for both
educators and students. The webinar aims to contribute to the overall educational growth,
and improved instructional process, communication and networking, the mental health, and
overall well-being of the teachers.
Key Outcomes for educators:
Innovative digital learning: Teachers gain skills to create personalised digital learning
experiences, select diverse digital resources, and employ various teaching methods supported
by digital training.
Data-driven decision-making: Educators learn to monitor student progress through detailed
digital usage statistics.
Feedback and personalisation: The Oqiq platform offers customised digital content
recommendations to address individual student needs.
Enhanced communication and collaboration: Teachers enhance interaction through video
platforms like Zoom and share resources via Stuudium and E-kool. The webinar also fosters
professional networking and collaborative exchanges of best practices.
Well-being: The webinar boosts teacher confidence and competence, reducing anxiety and
stress, and enhancing overall job satisfaction.
These impactful outcomes collectively contribute to a positive and transformative educational
experience for both educators and students:
1. Educational growth: Contributing to overall educational advancement and
improvement in instructional processes.
2. Communication and networking: Enhancing communication channels and fostering
networking opportunities among educators.
3. Mental health and well-being: Promoting teacher well-being by boosting confidence,
reducing anxiety, and managing workload stress.
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4. Innovation in teaching: Encouraging innovative teaching methods and empowering
educators with diverse digital resources.
5. Student engagement and academic outcomes: Enriching student learning
experiences and increasing engagement, leading to improved academic performance.
3.2.2.4 Organisational/national context issues
Many of the recommendations for intervention enhancements that originated from the ML
and DS literature review results could not be implemented due to lack of time (intervention
duration 1.5-hour stand-alone webinar) and financial resources. Consequently, the codevelopment part was not optimal.
Due to work overload, lack of time, and no direct benefits perceived with regard to the
proposed intervention evaluation, teachers are reluctant to engage in an extensive
intervention outcome/satisfaction survey process. This resulted in limited participation and
scarcity of data to conduct rigorous analysis.
The intervention providers also noted that the instrument used for evaluation in REMEDIS was
too broad for the Opiq intervention in their opinion, and especially the questions concerning
media literacy were foreign to them. However, there was no negative feedback regarding the
instrument or data collection from the participants.
3.2.2.5 Intervention enhancements/recommendations provided
While the intervention providers acknowledged the value of our recommendations, they opted
not to implement specific changes for the three webinars in question. They appreciated the
concept of allowing teachers to experience and practice from a student's perspective but felt
constrained by the required resources, both financial and technical, to execute this idea.
Another suggestion to use breakout rooms for group discussions was considered but
ultimately deemed incompatible with their workshop design, as they felt they needed to
observe and guide each group, which posed human resource challenges. With a total of 132
participants across the three webinars (fewer than usual), they expressed a preference for
smaller group sizes in future sessions, potentially enabling the use of breakout rooms in Zoom.
Interestingly, some of our recommendations found application in face-to-face courses
conducted in schools and at the Education festival in Estonia. Here, mathematics teachers had
the opportunity to experience the student's view of the platform and actively engage in solving
tasks, garnering positive feedback. Inspired by our suggestions, the providers also plan to
incorporate word clouds and Kahoot in their future sessions. Additionally, to ensure a
thorough evaluation of the activity's effectiveness and to prevent recurring shortcomings, we
recommended involving external experts. These experts, using reliable and recognized
evaluation methods, could provide an objective assessment of the intervention's impact.
Overall, while substantial changes were not implemented, the providers, with years of
experience in conducting these webinars, noticed enhanced collaboration and better work
distribution during the sessions after our discussions on potential improvements.
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3.3 Finland
3.3.1.1 The pilot course: Intervention description and purpose
This intervention was initiated, planned, prepared, and carried out by the Finnish Society of
Media Education (FSME), which partnered with Finnish vocational schools where the
intervention took place. Some regional libraries helped recruit the schools. Public libraries and
vocational school teachers benefit from the intervention materials that will be useful for them
in the future. Initially, it was planned that the intervention would cover five topics: information
literacy, visual literacy, participation, digital security, and online interaction. Teachers at
vocational schools were asked in advance to consider the topics they would prefer from this
list. The most preferred topics were information literacy and visual literacy, as well as
interaction on social media. Therefore interventions were primarily centred around these
topics. Information literacy teaching includes skills necessary to assess the reliability of sources
to recognise different motivations communicators may have and to recognise expert
knowledge and expertise. The focus of visual literacy was primarily on memes and different
online images. Interventions addressed topics also related to social media interaction,
including cyberbullying.
The intervention aimed to strengthen young people's versatile and flexible multi-literacy skills,
which include the interpretation and knowledge of visual information and audiovisual texts, as
well as critical reading skills. The project also emphasised the importance of multi-literacy as
part of everyday life, working life, and functioning in society. The interventions were carried
out in vocational school classrooms with ordinary equipment, including a blackboard and a
projector for PowerPoint presentations. There were no computers or other devices than
personal mobile phones used by participants. Students used their own mobile phones for a
couple of tasks. There were no fees associated with participation, nor were students given any
special rewards or incentives for participation. Students participated in the intervention while
attending school. In some cases, students did not know that the intervention would take place
before they entered the classroom, but some groups were better informed. At the beginning
of the intervention, teachers usually introduced the FSME representative to the class and
explained that he would conduct the workshop. Student motivation for the intervention was
not thoroughly discussed prior to or during the sessions. Observations by an FSME
representative revealed varied levels of engagement among students. Some were actively
involved, while others appeared disengaged, likened to "sleeping at the back of the class."
Motivation fluctuated with the relevance of the content; students were more engaged with
topics like memes, which closely relate to their daily media interactions, and less interested
when the content felt distant from their personal experiences.
3.3.1.2 Media literacy and digital skills targeted
Interventions addressed the following types of digital skills:
●
●
●
Information navigation and processing
Communication and interaction
Content creation and production
29
Teaching of technical, operational skills and programming related skills was not included in
this intervention.
3.3.1.3 Intervention outcomes and outputs
●
●
●
●
Information navigation & processing: increased students' ability to assess the
reliability of different sources online, to recognize expert knowledge and expertise, and
to recognize different motivations communicators may have in online environments.
Developed critical thinking towards memes and different online images.
Informal relationships: Increased awareness of different elements of interaction in
social media, including cyberbullying.
Work: developed students’ ability to recognize their skills and how to communicate
them in an online environment or via media outlets.
Education: development of teaching materials that could be used in vocational schools
by vocational school teachers or other professionals working with vocational school
students.
3.3.1.4 Organisational/national context issues
The interventions on media literacy, visual literacy, and online interaction, were conducted for
vocational school students between November 16th and 27th, 2023. A concise two-hour
session was attended by a small group of 58 participants, designed to fit conveniently into the
school schedule. The brief workshop format not only accommodated participant availability
but also streamlined the evaluation process and feedback collection, ensuring it was
manageable within the allocated time.
3.3.1.5 Intervention enhancements/recommendations provided
This intervention aimed at promoting multi-literacy in daily life involved a steering group with
researchers from UH and FSM and vocational school teachers. Participation was optional, but
incorporating the workshop into the curriculum could boost student motivation and
engagement. The two-hour session included interactive activities to improve learning
outcomes and skill development. To evaluate effectiveness, tools like evaluation forms and
feedback surveys were used to collect insights on participants' experiences, satisfaction, and
suggestions for improvement. For future extended workshops, ensuring data anonymisation
is critical to address security concerns, particularly concerning the use of digital media by
students. Enhanced data security can lead to higher response rates, more accurate feedback,
and greater overall effectiveness of the intervention.
3.3.2.1 Digital well-being services skills pilot course for elderly people: Intervention
description and purpose
This section outlines a pilot course on digital well-being service skills for the elderly in Central
Finland, organised by the University of the 3rd Age in Jyväskylä (U3A, open university). The
course was part of a research and development project titled "Significance of digital support
for older adults using digital technologies and services in the wellbeing services county of
Central Finland," led by The Centre of Excellence of Ageing and Care (CoE AgeCare) at the
30
University of Jyväskylä. Collaboration included non-academic partners such as the Wellbeing
services county of Central Finland, the Jyväskylä City elderly council, and The Finnish
Association for the Welfare of Older Adults.
The course was held on September 25 and 26, 2023, at the University of the 3rd Age in
Jyväskylä (U3A), focusing on helping elderly individuals navigate key digital wellbeing services
and understand information security. Each session, led by an experienced U3A teacher, ran for
approximately 5.5 hours and repeated the same content on both days. This intervention
specifically targeted elderly participants in Central Finland, addressing the new needs arising
from the reorganisation of social and health services in the area. In 2023, the course was
offered free due to the involvement of the University of Jyväskylä's CoE AgeCare project, which
also prompted a new focus and increased research activities. Pre-registration was required,
and participants were encouraged to bring their own digital devices, although U3A provided
computers, internet access, note-taking tools, and support from elderly peer-tutors. The
course was well-received, attracting nearly full attendance with 13 participants each day out
of a maximum of 14. Most attendees were motivated by the desire to gain confidence in using
digital health services and stay current with digital advancements. Many learned of the course
through personal referrals from past participants.
3.3.2.2 Media literacy and digital skills targeted
The course, tailored specifically for the elderly in Central Finland, focused on equipping
participants with essential skills for using digital health services effectively in their daily lives.
It covered key services, such as seniorchat, seniorisivut, hyvaks.fi, omaks.fi, and hyvis.fi.
Additionally, the curriculum included important aspects of cybersecurity, teaching secure
electronic authentication and how to adjust device security settings. This comprehensive
approach aimed to enhance the digital competence and safety of elderly users navigating
online health resources.
3.3.2.3 Intervention outputs and outcomes
The course was designed to significantly enhance the daily lives of the elderly, focusing on
enabling them to access necessary healthcare services efficiently and securely online. It
introduced participants to specific health support tools and websites, such as a chat tool
tailored for senior citizens. Additionally, the curriculum emphasised the importance of
cybersecurity and privacy, teaching participants how to safely use these digital tools, ensuring
their personal information remains protected while they navigate health services.
The expected outcomes of the intervention are as follows:
●
●
Information navigation & processing: The ability of elderly people to use digital
services (websites and tools) and understand the cybersecurity aspects of using them.
Health: Increasing the well-being of the elderly as they learn to find and use help from
digital health services safely and securely.
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●
Education: Developing the course content and teaching materials for future courses
and forming recommendations for developing similar courses for elderly people in
general.
3.3.2.4 Organisational/national context issues
With the introduction of new welfare areas in Finland in 2023, which shifted the responsibility
of social and health services from municipalities to these areas, there was a recognised need
for a pilot course tailored to assist elderly people in using digital services. This course was
organised as part of a development project and was systematically evaluated using various
methods, including interviews with peer-tutors and participants, class supervision, and the
REMEDIS surveys.
Designed to accommodate a small group (14 participants per day), the course saw a total of
26 elderly attendees. This small cohort size, however, limited the potential for large-scale
quantitative data collection. Additionally, the participants showed a preference for focusing on
the course material rather than participating in research activities. This was further complicated
by the wide variance in digital skill levels among the participants, affecting their engagement
with the research components of the project.
3.3.2.5 Intervention enhancements/recommendations provided
The development of the course was a collaborative effort involving CoE AgeCare project
researchers, U3A course teachers, and key non-academic partners such as the Well-being
services county of Central Finland, the Jyväskylä City elderly council, and The Finnish
Association for the Welfare of Older Adults. A steering group formed from these expert
organisations played a critical role in shaping the course content.
Starting from scratch, the course planning addressed the newly introduced digital services by
the Well-being services county, marking the first time such a course was offered. Based on
positive feedback from previous courses, a section on digital security was incorporated, and
other well-received elements from past digital courses for the elderly were also included. This
approach ensured the course was both comprehensive and tailored to meet the specific needs
of its elderly participants.
3.4 Poland
3.4.1.1 The Open-minded and Creative Teacher of the Future: Intervention description
and purpose
This intervention aims to enhance digital and media literacy among pre-service teachers by
focusing on the creation of open educational resources (OER). It will shift their approach from
passive to active use of new media, thereby improving their ability to develop modern ICTbased educational solutions. The project targets future teachers, identified as needing
specialised support based on prior assessments of their digital and media skills. This aligns
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with the Polish team's focus on teacher education and addresses the need to modernise
education in response to post-pandemic challenges and experiences from the e-learning crisis.
This activity, in collaboration with external partners, focuses on enhancing teaching and
learning support through modern solutions. IH Bielsko-Biała, represented by Christopher
Walker, aids in validating the theoretical framework and research reports' methodological and
linguistic aspects. The Polish Society for Educational Technology and Media, with Natalia
Walter participating, supports the intervention's implementation and the effectiveness
evaluation. The intervention offered a free course to pedagogy students at the Jagiellonian
University’s Institute of Pedagogy. It was held in a recently upgraded computer lab (including
software updates and additional memory) to ensure a comfortable learning environment. The
course used free university software, edtech tools, and video tutorial creation software like
Flashback Express and OBS, aiming to keep costs minimal for both organisers and participants.
The motivation for participating in the course stemmed from a needs analysis that highlighted
a demand among prospective teachers to enhance their digital competences, specifically in
creating open educational resources (OER). This interest is driven by the rapid digitisation of
Polish schools and increased expectations on teachers. The course also aimed to modernise
the curriculum at the Institute of Pedagogy to better engage students, acknowledging their
diverse backgrounds. Motivation levels were continuously assessed through observations,
direct communication, and evaluations of the OERs produced.
3.4.1.2 Media literacy and digital skills targeted
The course designed to boost media literacy and digital skills was structured into three stages:
Introduction to ICT: Focused on creating, editing, saving, and transferring data across
different digital formats, adhering to the ECDL standard and using the office suite available.
OER Use and production: Led by a media pedagogy specialist, this stage introduced free
software like OBS and Flashback for creating, editing, archiving, and sharing OERs. Trainees
also accessed YouTube tutorials on making video tutorials and communicating OERs
effectively.
Dissemination: The OERs developed by trainees were disseminated by the Polish REMEDIS
project team.
This approach is grounded in Fedeli's 2020 model, emphasising the enhancement of teacher
digital competence through video-based OERs, with a focus on problem-based learning
complemented by initial instructions.
3.4.1.3 Intervention outputs and outcomes
The evaluation of achievement and commitment in the course occurred in several stages:
Pre-test: Trainees initially took a universal pre-test as part of the REMEDIS project to assess
their starting competencies.
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Identifying benefits: During the second stage, trainees explored potential benefits from
developing OER, enhancing their understanding and motivation.
Post-test and engagement: In the final stage, participants completed a post-test to evaluate
the individual benefits they gained from the course. Engagement was consistently monitored
by a media pedagogy specialist, who also ensured the quality of the OERs produced.
The course satisfaction was linked to self-reflection on trainees' readiness for teaching in a
digitally evolving educational environment. Prospective teachers received feedback on their
assignments and saw their high-quality OERs uploaded online and actively promoted. This
hands-on problem-solving experience, often a first for many, significantly contributed to their
satisfaction, particularly through the creation of valuable educational materials.
3.4.1.4 Organisational/national context issues
The intervention is a key component in modernising teacher education for future generations
(Tomczyk & Fedeli, 2022), emphasising the critical role of digital and media literacies as
fundamental skills in the teaching profession. Their importance has become particularly
pronounced in the post-pandemic landscape. This initiative aligns with the expectations of the
digital-native student generation, meeting both educational challenges and societal demands
for modernised, digitised education. As such, it is integral to higher education development
strategies. Furthermore, the intervention facilitated the integration of new educational content
into mandatory courses, allowing for practical validation of this content and its pedagogical
approach.
3.4.2.1 Enhancing Digital Skills and Teaching for Carers of Older Adults: Intervention
description and purpose
The project was executed in partnership with several entities, including the University of the
Third Age, which provided honorary patronage and helped reach the target audience. The
OPEN UJ platform, part of the Jagiellonian University Teaching Support Center, made the
training accessible online, requiring only account creation. Additional collaborators include the
Krakow Institute for the Development of Education, which offers teacher training; the Media
Education Center at Polish Radio Kielce, which supports media education goals; Super Senior
Magazine, Poland’s first magazine for the senior community; and the Cluster Life Science
Kraków Foundation, which facilitates a network in the scientific and business sectors.
Participation in the course was free, requiring only account creation on the Open UJ or KIRE
Moodle platforms. Focused on participant needs, the e-learning course was hosted on userfriendly platforms with robust technical support. The course design was guided by insights
from REMEDIS analyses, ensuring it was effectively tailored to meet learners' requirements.
The primary motivation for participating in the course stemmed from a lack of understanding
about the digital divide and a desire to enhance skills in teaching seniors. Additionally, some
participants viewed the course as a step in their career development, indicating a strong
external motivation. To support this, a promotional campaign was launched in collaboration
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with partners such as KIRE, UTW, CEM, LifeScience Klaster, and Super Senior Magazine. The
initiative highlighted the need for institutions committed to digital inclusion to have
professionally trained staff capable of planning, implementing, and assessing educational
programs based on contemporary pedagogical approaches in geragogy, social gerontology,
and andragogy.
3.4.2.2 Media literacy and digital skills targeted
The course, designed for caregivers and trainers, encompasses content that extends beyond
improving media literacy and digital skills. It aims to educate participants about the digital
divide and the importance of inclusion. The curriculum is tailored to meet the specific needs
of the target audience, providing insights into adult learning, challenges faced by older adults
in learning, and their educational preferences. The course is structured into nine
comprehensive parts:
Digital Exclusion
Digital Competences
Specific Educational Needs of Seniors
Supporting Older Adults' Learning Process
Motivating Seniors
Role of a Perfect Geragogue
Guidelines for Educating Seniors in Digital Skills
Educational Objectives and Content
Internet Safety for Seniors
3.4.2.3 Intervention outputs and outcomes
Platform statistics and lesson summaries reflect strong engagement. Participants in the
REMEDIS project completed both a pre-test and a post-test, which included questions about
their opinions of the course; responses were overwhelmingly positive. Participants suggested
improvements and expressed satisfaction with the course content, requesting more short and
instructional films.
3.4.2.4 Organisational/national context issues
As global populations age, it is projected that by 2030, one in six people worldwide will be
over 60. This demographic shift coincides with difficulties for older adults in integrating into
the digital world. Amid rapid technological advances, ensuring digital inclusion for seniors
becomes crucial. In Europe, Denmark, Sweden, Ireland, Luxembourg, Finland, the Netherlands,
and Belgium excel in intensive internet use. However, countries like Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece,
Italy, and Poland fall behind in digital engagement. For example, in Poland, only 25.6% of those
aged 65-74 use voice or video calls online, 28.6% send and receive emails, 21.3% engage on
social networking sites, and 22% make online purchases (GUS, 2023). Despite the opportunities
presented by new media, Polish seniors struggle to enhance their quality of life through
information and communication technologies.
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The enhancement of digital skills among seniors is facilitated through intermediaries such as
caregivers and trainers who collaborate with Universities of the Third Age and senior clubs. An
e-learning course specifically designed for these intermediaries aims to support this effort.
3.4.3.1 Strengthening media competence of people at risk of digital exclusion:
Intervention description and purpose
The primary goal of the intervention is to enhance understanding of public media operations,
promote critical analysis of media messages, and strengthen defenses against disinformation.
Interactive workshops provide a secure environment where participants can discuss their
online experiences, learn to identify fake news, distinguish between truth and falsehood, and
acquire both basic and advanced information searching techniques. They will also learn to
verify sources using appropriate tools.
Participants will develop critical thinking skills and recognise emotional responses to
disinformation, which will help them consciously counteract false content in the future. They
will understand how emotions and personal experiences influence their perception of
information, thus affecting their vulnerability to disinformation. The workshop incorporates
experiential learning elements from the Kolb cycle.
This initiative is a collaborative effort in the Malopolska region, spearheaded by the All About
Science Foundation in Kraków, which brings extensive experience in organising educational
events for diverse age groups. The foundation has provided honorary patronage and support
in engaging the target audience. Additional support comes from the Universities of the Third
Age in Trzebinia, Chrzanów, and Zabierzów, which offer free access to necessary facilities and
equipment. Recruitment assistance is provided by the Chrzanów Municipal Public Library and
the Trzebinia Scout Troop.
The project leverages the resources of institutions affiliated with the Jagiellonian University,
using local organisations specialising in non-formal education to provide spaces for in-person
workshops. Following the BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) approach, as discussed by Santos
(2020) and Aggarwal (2018), trainees will use their own smartphones to perform media literacy
exercises that enhance their understanding of manipulation in new media. This includes
exercises to classify sources as credible or misleading. BYOD is particularly useful in areas
lacking computer access. Additionally, access to various media literacy websites, such as
demagog.org.pl and Fajnie, że Wiesz, is crucial. These resources are integral to the training
programme, offering essential support for reinforcing media literacy skills during the
workshops.
Participant motivation for the training is fostered through various strategies. Collaborating
institutions like Universities of the Third Age and senior citizens' clubs inform and engage
36
seniors about the course. Given the rarity of such educational activities, this approach is
expected to significantly motivate participants. Throughout the course, trainees learn the
importance of strong media competencies and how these skills defend against misinformation
and manipulation. Their motivation will be reinforced from the start by showcasing the
comprehensive skills and knowledge they will acquire. Finally, at the course's end, participants
receive an evaluation of their enhanced Digital Literacy and Media Literacy (DL&ML) skills,
encouraging a positive shift in their digital information consumption habits.
3.4.3.2 Media literacy and digital skills targeted
The aim of the training programme (intervention) is to strengthen media literacy in terms of
resilience to manipulation and disinformation in the new media space. The training
programme will include skills relating to: distinguishing fake from real information,
strengthening the ability to search for information sources, knowing how to characterise
information identified as fake news, knowing how to check the veracity of information on
websites dedicated to this process, or improving knowledge of the positioning mechanisms of
online content, including the clickbait phenomenon.
3.4.3.3 Intervention outputs and outcomes
Engagement levels were evident during the workshops, which included integrated and
activating exercises like discussions, individual and group tasks, and games. Participants also
completed pre-tests and post-tests as part of the REMEDIS project. The effectiveness and
satisfaction from the intervention are measured using these tests and through individual
interviews. Conducted face-to-face, the intervention allows for immediate feedback and swift
adjustments. The workshops aim to equip participants from disadvantaged groups with
essential knowledge for protection against manipulation and disinformation in new media.
Ultimately, the real enhancement of media skills is expected to significantly increase
participant satisfaction.
3.4.3.4 Organisational/national context issues
The Polish Government's website describes fake news as intentionally misleading, shocking,
and controversial, noting the increasingly blurred line between minor errors and deliberate
falsehoods. This highlights the importance of addressing fake news today. The Polish REMEDIS
team's intervention responds to this pressing issue, targeting key vulnerable groups such as
seniors, NEETs (those not in education, employment, or training), and immigrants,
underscoring the project's relevance and urgency.
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3.5 Spain
3.5.1.1 Cibermanagers por la Igualdad: Intervention description and purpose
The "Cybermanagers for Equality" programme, coordinated by PantallasAmigas and funded
by the Spanish Ministry of Equality, aims to combat gender-based violence in digital contexts.
The programme fosters positive coexistence and promotes egalitarian behaviour among
students. Implemented in various secondary schools across Spain, especially those facing high
complexity due to socio-economic challenges, diverse student backgrounds, and specific
educational needs, the programme prioritises schools with the greatest needs. Teachers are
trained on digital coexistence risks and myths (e.g., sexting, aesthetic pressure, romantic love)
to equip them to educate students. These students then create content and conduct training
for younger peers and their families. The programme details the main objectives, participation
motivations, necessary resources, involved agents, and outcomes. Challenges and recent
improvements to enhance programme effectiveness are also discussed in subsequent sections.
PantallasAmigas, a non-governmental organisation active in Spain since 2004, focuses on
protecting and promoting the rights of children and adolescents in digital contexts. Its action
is grounded in five pillars: educational communication, education in digital life skills,
innovation, engagement in various educational aspects, and the promotion of universal values.
Key activities include developing awareness campaigns, creating educational materials,
providing consultancy to public bodies and businesses, and offering training for minors,
teachers, families, and professionals.
One of its key initiatives, the Cybermanagers programme launched in 2010, pioneered the use
of peer learning and service learning in Spanish schools to foster digital citizenship and cyber
coexistence. The Cybermanagers for Equality programme, an extension of this strategy,
combines digital and face-to-face educational practices to promote egalitarian behaviour and
positive coexistence in schools. Supported by the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU),
which offers evidence-based improvements, the programme equips teachers with innovative
training to address cyber violence. It empowers students to create their own content and
disseminate their knowledge to peers and families, enhancing their digital literacy and societal
engagement.
Cybermanagers for Equality is a dynamic eight-week training programme for secondary school
students (ages 13 to 16) that integrates service learning, project-based learning, and emotional
design to foster coexistence and equality. It aligns with the Spain Digital Plan 2026 by
enhancing key digital competencies through initial teacher training.
Programme Structure:
Project Presentation (Week 1): PantallasAmigas introduces the programme’s objectives,
methodology, and benefits to the school's management team, who then present it to
interested teachers for implementation during school hours.
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Teacher Training (Weeks 1-4):
Weeks 1-3: Teachers voluntarily choose and train autonomously in six tailored modules via a
digital platform, dedicating 10 hours total. PantallasAmigas provides support for module
selection and activity planning.
Week 4: A 4-6 hour workshop, led by PantallasAmigas experts, helps teachers finalise their
training, address doubts, and prepare methodologies.
Student Training (Weeks 4-7):
Weeks 4-5: Teachers pass on their knowledge to students, who volunteer for further
involvement.
Weeks 6-7: Volunteer students develop their own content under teacher guidance, preparing
to educate younger peers and families.
Action Plan (Week 8):
Implementation and Evaluation: Volunteer students act as trainers, disseminating their content
to the educational community. Teachers evaluate the programme's impact and suggest
improvements to PantallasAmigas, aiming for sustainable programme continuation.
This structured approach ensures that both teachers and students actively participate and
contribute to a culture of digital equality and respectful coexistence within the school
environment.
The primary goal of the Cybermanagers for Equality programme is to address and prevent
gender-based cyber violence affecting minors in Spain, particularly those from vulnerable
backgrounds like migrants or those with low socioeconomic status. Implemented in secondary
schools, which are seen as crucial venues for identifying and addressing such violence, the
programme focuses on promoting equality and positive coexistence online. Annually renewed,
this programme strives for sustainability and independence across schools, encouraging active
student involvement. It transforms students into peer trainers and influencers using service
learning, project-based learning, and emotional design. Essential to the programme is the prior
training of teachers in digital competencies and conflict resolution, tailored to student needs.
This training enables teachers to effectively mediate and communicate digitally, respecting
and responding to the specific needs of their students.
The Cybermanagers for Equality programme is offered free of charge, thanks to funding from
the Spanish Ministry of Equality for its inaugural edition. This no-cost availability requires
schools to commit to fostering positive digital coexistence, involving teacher training and
active student participation. Teachers volunteer for this programme, undertaking expertguided, autonomous training focused on digital competence and resolving digital conflicts
among students and families. Similarly, students volunteer as cybermanagers, engaging in
training and content creation, and commit to educating their peers and families.
39
Both groups—teachers and students—are expected to have internet access and digital devices
to use instructional materials and participate in online training sessions. It is also essential for
teachers to use digital devices during sessions to demonstrate real-life online scenarios rather
than just theoretical knowledge. Moreover, an annual commitment is required from schools,
teachers, students, and families to attend cybermanager meetings to exchange experiences
and insights with other educational communities across Spain. This connectivity is vital for
maintaining effective communication and collaboration among all participating cybermanager
schools.
The motivation to participate in the Cybermanagers for Equality programme varies among
different stakeholders, driven by concerns over the gap in adult understanding of minors'
recreational internet use, particularly on social networks.
Local Ggovernments: Initiate participation through education, equality, and social affairs
departments, enabling municipal schools to join the programme.
Schools and teachers: Schools join independently or through teacher advocacy. Teachers are
motivated by the chance to enhance their digital skills and apply them to educate students on
equality, respect, and positive coexistence.
Active learning: Teachers appreciate the programme's active learning methodologies that
allow a co-educational approach to address digital coexistence issues affecting students'
learning.
Access to resources: Easy access to training materials, professional advice, and support is
crucial for teachers, helping them integrate the programme into their busy schedules and
apply its methodologies effectively.
Adaptability and sustainability: The programme's design to adapt to specific school needs
in its first year and aim for autonomous operation in subsequent years motivates schools and
teachers to engage initially and sustain participation.
Non-academic validation: For students acting as cybermanagers, a key motivation is the
opportunity to voice their concerns and share their knowledge on daily life issues not typically
covered in formal education. They value the role of influencing and aiding their peers,
enhancing their commitment to the program.
Each of these motivations underscores the overarching goal of Cybermanagers for Equality: to
bridge the digital knowledge gap and foster an environment of informed and respectful digital
interaction.
3.5.1.2 Media literacy and digital skills targeted
The Cybermanagers for Equality programme aligns with both the new Digital Competence
Framework for Teachers in Spain and the European DigCompEdu framework. It also adheres
to the educational competencies outlined in Spain's LOMLOE Educational Law, supporting the
goals of the Spain Digital Plan 2026. The programme specifically enhances digital
40
competencies vital for the personal development of young people, focusing on the following
areas:
Technical and operational skills:
Students enhance their abilities using digital platforms like Kahoot, Quiz, Canva, etc., to
develop and share content with peers and families.
Teachers learn to navigate new digital platforms to access training resources effectively.
Navigation and information processing:
Both teachers and students boost their skills in identifying, evaluating, and utilizing
information, particularly information that influences gender equality and promotes positive
digital coexistence and privacy rights.
Creation and production of content:
Central to the programme, students engage in project-based, service learning, and problembased learning to create digital content. This content is then shared with their peers and
families, fostering knowledge transmission.
Teachers facilitate and guide content creation, enhancing their digital skills through both
formal training and collaborative learning with students.
Communication and interaction techniques:
Students are trained on effective digital communication methods (e.g., social networks,
emails, chats) to foster positive coexistence and egalitarian behavior. They also learn to craft
and present digital content effectively.
Teachers and students use educational platforms for file sharing and communication,
enhancing interaction within the educational setting.
These focused training areas are designed to meet specific digital competencies that are
critical in today's digital landscape, particularly those that address the intersection of
technology with social issues like gender equality and privacy.
3.5.1.3 Intervention outputs and outcomes
The Cybermanagers for Equality programme is designed to foster positive coexistence and
address gender-based violence in digital spaces by developing digital competence among
students and teachers. This initiative brings multiple benefits across the educational
community:
Increased digital confidence: Teachers and students enhance their digital skills, aligning with
the objectives of the Spain Digital Plan 2026.
Risk management: Participants develop strategies to identify and address potential risk
behaviours related to gender inequality in digital contexts.
Autonomous critical thinking: Students produce their own content, guided by teachers but
encouraged to maintain creative independence.
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Enhanced communication skills: Students learn to tailor their communications effectively to
diverse audiences, including peers, families, and other educational communities.
Promotion of well-being: The programme supports a positive and respectful coexistence
within the school environment, benefiting teachers, students, and families involved.
Educational integration: Many schools incorporate the Cybermanagers programme into their
educational plans post-implementation, ensuring its long-term sustainability.
Protection of minors’ rights: The programme helps participants understand and advocate
for minors' digital rights, fostering respect and awareness.
Active methodologies: The initiative emphasises collaborative and community service
methodologies, enhancing traditional education with the active participation of students.
School autonomy: The programme’s design allows schools to tailor content and methods to
their specific needs, supporting sustainable implementation.
Networking and collaboration: Participation in the Cybermanagers network offers
opportunities for sharing experiences and building connections with educators from other
schools.
These components collectively aim to create a safer, more inclusive digital environment for all
members of the school community.
3.5.1.4 Organisational/national context issues
The Cybermanagers programme, with a proven track record since 2010 in over a hundred
Spanish schools, has incorporated many of REMEDIS's recommended improvements based on
literature reviews (Visenberg et al., 2023; Martínez et al., 2023). During the co-development
phase, special emphasis was placed on creating an evaluation system to assess the program's
impact on student well-being. Despite its established success, gauged by increasing school
adoption and positive feedback, developing and implementing a tailored quantitative
evaluation tool for cybermanager students, especially those from vulnerable backgrounds,
presented challenges. Issues included students' difficulties with interpreting complex
questions and the logistical challenges for teachers, who had to assist in completing these
surveys during their limited available time, adding strain due to coordination demands across
different centres.
3.5.1.5 Intervention enhancements/recommendations provided
The Cybermanagers programme faces significant challenges in establishing a robust
evaluation framework to systematically assess its broader impacts beyond digital skill
enhancement and media literacy. Although the provider has gathered valuable observational
data, there is resistance from school centres, primarily due to workload concerns, against
allowing researchers to participate in these sessions. Additionally, there is a lack of quantitative
tools to measure the programme's impact on students' digital well-being. Schools and
teachers, possibly wary of being evaluated, show reluctance to engage in or facilitate the
completion of questionnaires by students. This hesitancy complicates efforts to quantitatively
assess the program's effectiveness. Moreover, there is no established method to systematically
42
verify whether the program achieves sustained implementation in school centers as intended,
leaving a gap in evidence-based assurance of its effectiveness. Given these issues, it is
recommended to develop systematic qualitative and quantitative data collection and
evaluation tools. These tools are essential not only for measuring the programme's impact but
also for demonstrating to school centres and participants that evaluation is a critical and
beneficial aspect of the project. Furthermore, the involvement of experts and evidence-based
interventions is crucial for enhancing the effectiveness of this programme, ensuring its
continued improvement and success.
3.5.2.1 Desfake for education centres: Intervention description and purpose
The Desfake project, managed by Verificat, focuses on combating misinformation through
educational interventions aimed at enhancing critical thinking and information verification
skills among students, particularly in Catalonia’s high-complexity schools. These schools often
serve vulnerable populations, such as migrants and students from low socio-economic
backgrounds in areas with high unemployment.
Verificat, known for its fact-checking and data journalism, especially on political and scientific
topics, initiated Desfake in response to the escalating misinformation problems that worsened
during the COVID pandemic. Realising the need for a long-term solution, Verificat expanded
into educational programmes to foster media literacy.
Desfake operates through three primary models:
- Direct student training by Desfake professionals, with some teacher involvement for
sustainability.
- "Teachers Desfake," where teachers receive 15-30 hours of training in digital skills
and media literacy, often funded by educational centres or local councils, with
certification that enhances their professional growth.
- "Desfake Schools," the most common approach, focuses on whole-school
engagement, funded by regional governments or local councils. It involves training
3-5 teachers per school who then integrate the learning into the school’s broader
culture.
Funding for Desfake often comes from local or regional governments, such as a public tender
by the Catalonian Department of Education for digital competence training. This programme
not only targets student development but also emphasises the role of teacher training centres,
despite their limited budgets, in extending the program’s reach and impact.
The main stakeholders in the Desfake programme include:
Teachers: They are pivotal, receiving training in media literacy and digital skills (ML&DS) and
are responsible for imparting this knowledge to their students.
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Students: As active participants, students not only receive training but also engage in
developing their own content, applying their new skills.
Families: Recognised as crucial recipients of ML&DS education, engaging families effectively
through school centres remains a challenge.
Other key stakeholders involved in promoting and funding the programme are:
Educational entities: Teacher Training Centres, town councils, and education departments of
Autonomous Communities often support the initiative financially and programmatically.
Third sector entities: Foundations and organisations focused on enhancing informational
media literacy and fact-checking skills among educators and other community agents also
play a significant role.
These stakeholders collectively contribute to the programme’s reach and effectiveness in
fostering educational change and enhancing digital literacy.
The Desfake programme, driven by Verificat and Escuela21, focuses on enhancing Media
Literacy and Digital Skills (ML&DS) through project-based workshops where secondary school
students actively participate and apply their skills by tackling verification challenges. The
programme collaborates with teachers to co-develop tailored interventions for each school,
considering their unique needs and contexts. This approach has been piloted in 10 Catalan
schools with plans for broader implementation next academic year.
The programme trains teachers extensively, with a recent shift from 70 to 30 hours of focused
training on digital transformation, emphasising practical application in school environments.
The training is supported by an online platform like Moodle, providing continuous access to
resources and online monitoring, requiring basic digital infrastructure which schools typically
possess.
Funding comes from the Catalan Department of Education and aims to co-finance schools that
lack budgets for such programmes. Motivation for participation stems from a recognised need
among educators to enhance their and their students’ information media literacy, critical for
navigating the challenges posed by the digital information landscape. Teachers are also
incentivised by career development opportunities, as training credits contribute towards
public service advancements. The overarching goal is to empower teachers and, by extension,
their students and families, to critically engage with digital content and combat misinformation
effectively.
3.5.2.2 Media literacy and digital skills targeted
The Desfake intervention is structured around key elements from the DigCompEdu framework,
focusing on enhancing digital competencies in educators, particularly:
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Information Navigation and Processing: Central to the programme, this involves teaching
students to critically assess and manage information.
Content Creation and Production: Students learn to produce and manage digital content,
integrating Media Literacy skills to navigate digital media effectively.
Communication and Interaction Techniques: The programme emphasises digital
communication skills, including the appropriate use of social media, crafting formal emails for
public agencies, and distinguishing between formal and informal communication contexts.
Overall, Desfake prioritises developing a critical understanding and communication of
information across various digital platforms and formats. The intervention also teaches
students the nuances of communication codes on social networks and how to adapt their
messaging for different relational contexts, whether formal or informal.
3.5.2.3 Intervention outcomes and outputs
The Desfake intervention equips teachers to enhance their own and their students' media
literacy and digital skills (ML&DS), focusing particularly on improving information navigation
and processing capabilities. The intervention offers several benefits:
Verification skills: Students improve their ability to verify information. Post-intervention
evaluations require them to assess the veracity of various cases, demonstrating any
enhancements in their information evaluation skills.
Critical thinking: The programme significantly boosts students' critical thinking abilities,
enabling them to critically analyse information across various contexts, not just on digital
platforms.
Socio-emotional education: It integrates socio-emotional learning by helping students
recognize their own beliefs and judgments. This fosters a critical dialogue among peers in the
classroom, influencing a shift in attitude towards more thoughtful engagement with content.
Transversal relevance: Media and Information Literacy are woven through various school
subjects and situations, highlighting its importance to the entire educational community.
Focus on vulnerable students: Desfake prioritises work in highly complex schools, addressing
the unique challenges faced by vulnerable students. It encourages these students to
understand and articulate their identities in a manner that avoids stigmatisation and judgment.
Empathy and Socratic method: The intervention encourages teachers to adopt a Socratic
approach, promoting empathy and a deeper understanding of different perspectives, essential
for fostering an inclusive and reflective classroom environment.
3.5.2.4 Organisational/national context issues
After the pilot phase of the Desfake project, the goal is to foster autonomy among
participating schools, enabling them to continue the programme independently in the
following year. While Desfake will likely offer ongoing support and advice, a key challenge for
the provider is determining the optimal point at which a school is ready to self-sustainably
45
manage the implementation of the programme. This involves assessing the school's ability to
continue applying the learned principles and methodologies without direct oversight.
3.5.2.5 Intervention enhancements/recommendations provided
Even though the provider has already started to design and to implement different evaluation
methods, they would need to develop an appropriate measurement instrument in order to
assess the process of pre and post intervention, data collection in a systematic way. In this
sense, the provider addresses that the collaboration with REMEDIS- could be very useful for
this purpose as far as the evaluation methods are evidence-based.
Evaluating and measuring the effectiveness of the Desfake intervention presents a significant
challenge for the provider. To this end, they have developed and implemented quantitative
pre and post questionnaires designed to gauge students' prior knowledge and their ability to
discern the trustworthiness of various information sources and digital content. After
completing Capsule 2 of the training, teachers distribute these questionnaires to assess
students' understanding based on specific questions. A second questionnaire follows to
measure the learning outcomes. These results are anonymously used by Verificat to gauge the
educational impact of the content.
Despite the utility of these questionnaires in measuring students' development of critical
digital skills, the provider, Verificat, supported by Escuela21, is concerned about the lack of a
comprehensive evaluation tool that can assess broader impacts on participants’ wellbeing,
such as identity, inclusion, and digital knowledge.
In addition to quantitative methods, Verificat has undertaken significant qualitative work,
including observations and focus groups with students and teachers across various Desfake
centres. However, there is a recognised need to develop a more robust measurement
instrument to systematically collect and analyse pre and post-intervention data. The
collaboration with REMEDIS could be instrumental in achieving this, as it would bring
evidence-based evaluation methods to refine and enhance the assessment processes.
3.6 United Kingdom
3.6.1.1 Digital Champions - Citizens Online: Intervention description and purpose
Citizens Online (CO) targets both long-term organisational and project-specific objectives to
promote digital inclusion. Their core mission is to enhance people's digital skills, access, and
confidence across various dimensions. Each project, such as Digital Gwynedd, is tailored to
specific goals like job-seeking skills, set in collaboration with funders who may focus on
particular outcomes. CO emphasises a lifelong learning model, preparing users to continually
adapt and maintain their digital skills over time. They recognise the recurring need for support,
drawing on past experiences where sustainability in digital engagement has been a challenge.
The intervention design heavily relies on a personalised approach, highly valued by
beneficiaries for its adaptability and ongoing support from digital champions. This flexibility is
46
crucial as the need for digital connectivity often emerges through an iterative discovery
process.
Stakeholders include learners, intermediaries, funders, and digital champions, with each group
playing a distinct role. Intermediaries refer users to support services, while funders, such as
local councils or NHS trusts, finance these interventions. Digital champions, often local
volunteers familiar with related charitable work, are essential for on-the-ground
implementation, receiving training from CO but not specific digital skills during their induction.
Despite a slight dip in volunteer numbers, CO continues to expand its impact through a digital
inclusion network, fostering collaborations with charities, councils, and the NHS to enhance
referral processes and resource sharing. This network also hosts monthly sessions to exchange
field experiences, reinforcing CO’s commitment to leveraging collective expertise for broader
digital inclusion.
In the North Wales project managed by Citizens Online (CO), participants must be of working
age, a requirement not stipulated in other projects. Access to training or devices is gained
through referrals, and trainees select the type of support needed, such as devices or digital
skills training. Originally, devices were loaned but due to the risk of excluding individuals upon
return, this practice was discontinued. Now, CO provides recycled devices that are functional
and updatable. Despite the absence of specific data, some trainees transition into volunteers
post-training. CO's projects rely on external funding, leading to some projects closing and
discontinuing support. However, it has been noted that some digital champions continue
assisting trainees independently after project conclusion.
CO uses a Kanban dashboard to organise third-party training resources by topic, streamlining
access for digital champions without the need to develop new content. While detailed
motivations of trainees are not comprehensively tracked, experience shows that many seek
help for specific online tasks like paying council tax, connecting with friends and family, or
online shopping. Initially unaware of the broader benefits of internet use, trainees often
discover new online possibilities through training, which is tailored to their emerging needs
and perceived opportunities. Occasionally, CO creates specific videos and content for certain
contracts and organisations, but generally, no regular content for digital literacy support is
developed. Volunteers are encouraged to discuss any topics with trainees, focusing on
building confidence and safety online to minimise risks and online harm.
3.6.1.2 Media literacy and digital skills targeted
Citizens Online (CO) focuses on informal training, making it challenging to categorise the
specific digital skills covered in each session. Rather than developing bespoke content for
media literacy and digital skills (ML&DS), CO leverages existing resources and facilitates access
for their trainers. Digital champions, lacking specific guidance, can seek support from the
project manager as needed. CO expects these volunteers to confidently address trainees'
queries, regardless of their initial familiarity with the topics. The training provided blends
digital skills with media literacy to enhance participants' confidence and problem-solving
47
abilities. The adaptability of the training varies with the project and is sometimes customised
to meet funders' requirements, while the regular training for CO volunteers follows a more
standardised format.
3.6.1.3 Intervention outputs and outcomes
Based on questionnaires applied to the Digital Gwynedd project in 2022, meaningful changes
in participants’ confidence are observed in the aspects consulted. Those are, using
communication tools, avoiding online scams, using Internet to find information, and using
Internet to shop, bank or access services (see Figures 1 to 4).
Figures 1-4: Self-reported confidence levels before and after support
48
One key expected outcome for Citizens Online (CO) is enhancing information navigation and
processing skills, supporting their commitment to lifelong learning and digital inclusion. This
involves empowering communities to use digital tools for learning and connecting with family
and friends. For specific projects, improving employment prospects and engagement is often
an essential goal set by funders, though these outcomes may not be immediately quantifiable.
Regarding evaluation improvements, there are opportunities to enhance how learning is
captured and used. Currently, lessons are often learned informally, but there is a need to
formalise data collection processes to better inform organisational practices for future
49
projects. Additionally, developing methods to understand why participants drop out could
provide valuable insights into improving engagement and retention strategies.
3.6.1.4 Organisational/national context issues
The organisation has recently experienced increasing difficulties in recruiting volunteers
(Digital Champions), in part, due to the cost of living crisis in the UK, which has negatively
affected those organisations that depend on volunteers to run their interventions.
Furthermore, given the nature of the short, one-to-one support of Digital Champions,
collecting data to evaluate impact is challenging, provided that comprehensive questionnaires
could not be applied with participants.
3.6.1.5 Intervention enhancements /recommendations provided
As mentioned above, two potential enhancements could be implemented in the short term.
On the one hand, there is difficulty in providing evidence of the project’s contribution to
people getting jobs, provided that this can be regarded as a long-term goal that requires other
skills to be fulfilled. Nonetheless, Citizens Online could measure and identify what skills have
been developed as intermediate achievements that may support job seeking. In that sense,
the REMEDIS project is willing to support the implementation of changes to their extant
instruments in order to identify and measure the mid-term goals set.
On the other hand, additional follow-up protocols can be elaborated to understand dropouts.
Provided that CO does not follow a specific termed curriculum, the fact that people do not
return frequently does not necessarily mean that the support provided was bad. Instead, their
concerns could be addressed in fewer sessions and they gained the confidence to continue
the learning process by themselves. Unfortunately, none of these possibilities can be
supported at the moment because of a lack of data.
3.6.2.1 Code Your Future: Intervention description and purpose
The primary goal of the course offered by CYF is to enhance adults' confidence in using online
platforms, focusing on everyday digital activities within the UK. While many adults possess
basic online skills, the course aims to boost their confidence and proficiency. Face-to-face
training is a core strategy, helping overcome connectivity barriers and reducing digital
exclusion.
Key challenges include defining clearer objectives and collecting data to assess the program's
impact. Future plans involve extending long-term support through connections with other
digital skill platforms, even non-partners, to provide continuous learning opportunities. The
course also seeks alignment with European standards, particularly the Digital Competence
Framework (DigComp), to enhance its credibility and secure further funding.
50
Stakeholders are primarily funders, delivery partners, and referral organisations, with little
interference in content delivery. Primary funding has been provided by Santander for three
years, with CYF now seeking new funding sources. Collaboration with organisations like the
IRC helps in securing attendees and venues, while companies like Capgemini contribute
venues and volunteers.
Beneficiaries are encouraged to use their own devices for assignments, with plans to facilitate
device upgrades through partnerships. A completion certificate is offered, though completion
rates are low due to the intimidating nature of homework requirements. Financial support for
transport is available, but the reimbursement process can be challenging.
Trainees primarily enrol to enhance their digital independence, stay updated with digital
trends, and prepare for online job applications. The course is particularly proactive with
refugees, focusing on practical skills for job hunting and community integration. Cybersecurity,
especially in banking, is a key interest area for attendees, while Internet addiction currently
remains a lesser concern.
3.6.2.2 Media literacy and digital skills targeted
In broad terms, digital skills covered in the course are foundational in the following categories:
•
Technical and operational.
•
Information navigation and processing.
•
Communication and interaction.
There is no content focused on media literacy in the course. However, some related topics are
briefly discussed—for example, social media and examples of how anyone could post anything
or misinformation and fake news. It must be noted that all this content is aimed at people at
a foundational level and the course is three sessions long.
3.6.2.3 Intervention outputs and outcomes
When it comes to the specific engagements expected in the short term, CYF expects
participants to improve their Info navigation processing behaviour. For example, enhancing
their web browsing and using different search engines and keywords.
Translation was particularly valuable for a specific target group of migrants whose native
language is not English. In their financial activities, they are expected to better understand
online banking and feel more confident using banking apps.
In terms of improvement opportunities, data collection and analysis have not been a priority
during the course implementation, so this would be important in order to understand how to
improve the current delivery.
The digital skills course by CYF focuses on boosting participants' confidence in navigating
online environments. Recognising the challenges in measuring long-term outcomes from a
three-week intervention, CYF aims for participants to overcome isolation by enhancing their
51
digital skills. This goal encompasses broad digital inclusion, enabling participants to engage
not only in social media but in all activities where internet use is beneficial.
3.6.2.4 Organisational/national context issues
CYF initially launched the digital literacy course in order to facilitate users at low digital skills
levels to engage in the main training offer, which is related to software development. However,
the offer of further training is on hold and the current demand for the digital literacy course is
not related to software development. The funding for the programme is about to end this year,
so this is likely to become an additional difficulty not experienced until now, and the timing
might not be beneficial since there is a perception that many organisations are competing for
reduced funds on digital literacy.
3.6.2.5 Intervention enhancements/recommendations provided
CYF has expressed the need to create impact measurement instruments in order to define
continuous improvement strategies and communicate their achievements to stakeholders,
especially potential funders. Furthermore, they are interested in aligning the DLP curriculum
with the DigComp framework, so future expansions are drawn upon general skills rather than
context-specific apps or services. Bearing that in mind, the REMEDIS project has recommended
that CYF review and redesign the content, curriculum and evaluation instruments to measure
the impact on specific skills and how such skills are contributing to enhancing engagement.
The REMEDIS team advises the process.
3.6.3.1 Learn My Way (Good Things Foundation): Intervention description and purpose
The Good Things Foundation (GTF) is dedicated to reducing digital exclusion in the UK by
providing devices, data, and digital skills training through its Device Bank, Data Bank, and the
Learn My Way learning platform. These resources are distributed to members of the Digital
Inclusion Network, which includes various organisations like the UK Government's Community
Renewal Fund, combined authorities, care charities, and councils that manage library access
points.
The primary recipients of devices and data are local organisations that serve broader purposes
beyond digital inclusion, integrating these tools as supplementary to their main services. Only
a few organisations focus exclusively on digital skills training. Generally, users access the Learn
My Way platform incidentally while seeking other services.
GTF supports these local hubs through a panel of ten ambassadors who facilitate product
development and disseminate key messages. They also oversee the National Digital Inclusion
Network, hosting events to gather live feedback from hubs on their service utilisation.
There are no prerequisites for using the online learning platform or receiving devices and data,
which are typically provided without conditions. However, local hubs assess additional needs
and manage registrations. In some cases, hubs proactively identify and approach those most
in need of devices. No incentives are directly offered for using GTF services or completing
52
courses. Occasionally, devices are loaned and given to users after training completion. Most
users engage with hubs due to urgent non-digital needs, such as housing or employment
support, making GTF's offerings a vital supplementary service.
3.6.3.2 Media literacy and digital skills targeted
The offer on digital skills is related to the Learn My Way platform. There are currently 11
courses, as shown in Figure 5.
Figure 5. Learn My Way course list snapshot
Technical and operational, Information navigation and processing, and Communication and
interaction skills are found in the courses provided. Most of them focus on the foundational
levels of these skills and are related to specific outcomes, such as finances, leisure, and health.
In addition, some content creation skills are also covered at a basic level. As it can be assumed
in the course titles, the courses are guided by the intended outcomes rather than the skills.
3.6.3.3 Intervention output and outcomes
The expected achievements can be inferred from the course titles and descriptions. They can
be related as follows:
●
●
●
●
●
●
Info navigation and processing: Starting to use the Internet, using email, and safety and
security online.
Education: Working with office programmes.
Work: Employment and work, working with office programmes.
Health: managing your health online.
Information relations: Staying in touch.
Finance: Managing your money online.
The work of GTF outcomes and evaluation is based on six pillars: Digitally Able, Equal, Safe,
Happier, Healthier and Better Off. They are related to the activities and outputs in Figure 6.
53
Figure 6. The Good Things Foundation impact and outcomes framework. (Source: The Good
Things Foundation
The REMEDIS framework identifies several core pillars connected to specific outcomes in the
Good Things Foundation's (GTF) initiatives:
Happy: Linked to combating loneliness and isolation by fostering informal relationships.
Digitally Able, Equal, and Safe: Associated with enhancing skills in information navigation
and processing.
Better Off: Connected to improvements in education, work, and financial stability.
To evaluate these outcomes, GTF uses simple binary questions in their questionnaires, aiming
to boost the typically low feedback rates (around 5% for both baseline and post-intervention
responses). The goal of this data collection is to gather practical evidence of the projects'
impacts rather than academic rigor. Preliminary results indicate that half of the platform users
report feeling happier, healthier, and better off.
The primary focus is on assessing short-term impacts due to the challenges of measuring longterm objectives like employment or educational enrolment, which require more extensive
interventions. Integrating the data obtained into ongoing project improvement remains a
challenge, especially since demographic data collection is robust on Learn My Way but more
limited for the device and data banks.
3.6.3.4 Organisational/national context issues
The Good Things Foundation (GTF) is a large organisation that groups three programmes on
access and digital skills. Nonetheless, they do not provide direct services to the beneficiaries
targeted in the REMEDIS project, but this is done via their Digital Inclusion hubs. These are the
organisations that act locally, using the resources provided by GTF, sometimes along with
other support not related to digital skills training.
54
3.6.3.5 Intervention enhancements/recommendations provided
The REMEDIS project has offered to participate in the discussion rounds to be carried out in
incoming months with the digital inclusion hubs in order to understand how the current offer
could be enhanced based on their outcomes framework. In addition, the GTF collects a high
volume of data from different sources, but such data have not been entirely assessed in light
of providing input to improve their services. In that sense, the REMEDIS project has suggested
to characterise all data collected and establish how such data informs the theoretical
framework provided. This could lead to define protocols of data management, identify what
data are missing and what other data already collected might not be relevant for decisionmaking processes.
4 Questionnaire development
4.1 Description of the different modules (A-D) and how the questions were set
up
This section on questionnaire development outlines the structure and content of the survey
designed to assess the effectiveness of our interventions. It details four modules (A-D) that
collect data from various angles, ranging from socio-demographic information to digital skills
and post-intervention outcomes. The questionnaire draws on successful elements from
previous projects, ensuring relevance and accuracy in data gathering.
A – Sociodemographic information
This module gathers basic background information about participants, including:
Age
Gender
Education
Occupation
Self-confidence (some items may be omitted depending on the intervention’s focus; education
categories are tailored to each country’s framework; self-confidence items are optional and
context-dependent).
B – Digital lived environment
This module assesses participants' access to technology and their digital competencies across
seven areas:
Device access
Technical and operational skills
Information navigation and processing skills
Communication and interaction skills
Content creation skills
Media Literacy
Digital knowledge
55
Questions range from device usage to evaluating statements about their digital skills and
media literacy.
C – Uses and outcomes (Pre-intervention)
Part C refers to participants' internet use and the outcomes they perceive, focusing on:
Learning
Well-being
Occupation (optional)
Finance
Social relations
Each dimension features two questions: one on internet activities and satisfaction with the
results, and another on negative experiences such as online scams.
D – Uses and outcomes (Post-intervention)
Mirroring Part C, this module is used post-intervention to assess changes in internet use and
ability to avoid negative outcomes. It consists of 12 items, with 8 fixed and 4 optional based
on the relevance to the intervention and the participants' context.
By systematically collecting data through these modules, the questionnaire aims to provide
comprehensive insights into the interventions' impacts on participants' digital engagement
and overall life context.
4.2 Validation of the instrument
Parts A and B have been externally validated. They have been used previously in the “youth
Digital Skills Indicator (ySKILLS)” project, except for the media literacy question, which was not
validated and it was the result of a synthesis of several media literacy scales explored in the
literature. Questions in Parts C and D have been validated in the project “Networked Effects of
Digital Inequalities”, but the wording was changed and the scales were adapted to the purpose
of this project.
Additional validation was made to the whole instrument by carrying out cognitive interviews
with beneficiaries of ML&DS interventions in the UK. It must be noted that this process was
simultaneous to the application of the questionnaire in other interventions, so the final version
of the instrument was not applied in all cases.
4.3 Data collection scenarios
Best case scenario
This is the ideal scenario. It will consist of the pre-test with parts A, B and C. That is, it should
be applied just before the intervention starts.
Afterwards, a post-intervention instrument is to be used once the intervention is complete.
This instrument is initially composed of part D but may also need to include part A when preintervention responses cannot be matched with post-intervention entries.
56
The follow-up instrument, which is similar to the pre-intervention one, should be applied after
a month in order to identify how skills, literacy, use, and perceived outcomes have changed
over time. Similarly, part A (questions 1,2,3) should be added when responses cannot be
matched to specific individuals.
Desirable scenario
This is the plan for most interventions. It will have parts A, B and C for the pre-test and the
post-test alike. The post-test would be applied with at least a month in between the
intervention and the post intervention questionnaire. The post intervention questionnaire
could be completed just before a second round in the intervention (for example, the second
training course)
Expected version
Some interventions that may face resource limitations to apply the complete post-intervention
instrument may opt to use a shorter version. It will consist of the pre-test with parts A, B and
C and part D just after the intervention is complete to prevent dropout, especially if the
partners are likely to lose contact with participants afterwards.
This instrument is composed of part D but may also need to include part A (questions 1,2,3)
when pre-intervention responses cannot be matched with post-intervention entries part B can
be included if there is a desire to measure impact on skill levels before and after the
intervention.
57
Minimum version
One-off interventions and those with very limited time available for the evaluation could make
use of a reduced application by omitting parts C in the pre-test and B in the post-test,
respectively. Part A ought to be applied in both times if matching is not ensured. In other
words, the pre-test instrument would comprise parts A and B only, whereas the post-test
would be part D only and administered immediately after the intervention.
With some exceptions where participants need more assistance, the application of either
instrument is expected to take no more than 10 minutes in the latter cases, and the reduced
post-test is aimed to take 5 minutes maximum, so dropout rates due to questionnaire fatigue
can be minimised.
4.4 Development of the analysis strategy
The quantitative data analysis strategy primarily focuses on statistical evaluation of responses
gathered from the questionnaire modules. This will involve descriptive statistics to outline
general trends and characteristics, as well as inferential statistics to test hypotheses related to
digital skills acquisition, use outcomes, and socio-demographic impacts.
Given the small sample sizes which are common in targeted interventions, there are inherent
limitations that must be acknowledged. Small samples can reduce the statistical power of the
analysis, which means detecting true effects or differences becomes less likely. This limitation
also restricts the complexity of models that can be reliably used, as overfitting becomes a
significant risk with more variables than data points. To mitigate these issues, analysis will focus
on robust methods such as bootstrapping for estimating confidence intervals and effect sizes,
which are less sensitive to sample size.
58
Furthermore, small samples can provide opportunities for detailed case studies or pilot testing
of innovative practices, which could lead to valuable insights and guide future research or
larger-scale data collection strategies.
The qualitative data analysis will involve thematic analysis to identify and interpret patterns
within the data that emerge from open-ended questionnaire responses, interviews, or focus
groups. This approach will allow for a deep understanding of the participants' experiences,
perceptions, and the subjective impacts of the digital skills interventions.
Data will be systematically coded to categorise themes related to key topics such as barriers
to digital access, perceived benefits of digital literacy, and personal narratives of change and
challenges. The analysis will also consider the context and complexities of responses to
understand the nuances behind participants’ interactions with digital technologies.
Given the qualitative nature of this data, analysis will not just aim to quantify responses but to
provide a narrative that reflects the varied experiences of participants. This narrative can offer
insights into the effectiveness of interventions, highlight areas for improvement, and suggest
mechanisms through which digital skills training impacts participants.
In both quantitative and qualitative analyses, the strategy will ensure that findings are reported
transparently, discussing the implications of the data comprehensively while acknowledging
any biases or methodological constraints. This dual approach ensures a holistic understanding
of the impact of the interventions, providing a robust foundation for making informed
decisions about future directions and improvements.
The forthcoming REMEDIS reports (D3.1 and D3.2) will address the analyses of each
intervention in the various countries and on the integration of comparable questions in the
pre- and post-intervention stages.
5 Conclusion
In conclusion, this comprehensive report has elaborated on the intricate processes and
methodologies employed in the co-development of intervention programmes across various
REMEDIS focal countries, utilising the innovative REMEDIS Canvas framework. This framework
has served as a cornerstone for the structured planning, refinement, and adaptive execution
of each intervention, tailored to the nuanced contextual challenges of diverse geographical
and cultural landscapes.
Throughout the project, the initial phase of problem definition and context analysis was critical.
By understanding the specific challenges and dynamics of each setting, the interventions were
strategically aligned with the needs and socio-cultural nuances of the target populations. The
REMEDIS Canvas facilitated a systematic approach to defining clear objectives and crafting
strategies that are responsive to these detailed analyses.
59
Central to the success of these interventions was the engagement of stakeholders. This report
highlights how the inclusive approach of co-creation and continuous feedback through
collaborative workshops and consultations fostered a sense of ownership and commitment
among stakeholders. The Canvas framework supported these efforts by providing a structured
pathway for discussion, ensuring that every perspective was considered in the consensusbuilding process.
The design and implementation of the interventions were informed by a robust engagement
process and a thorough analysis of contextual factors. Adaptability was a key feature of the
implementation phase, allowing programme strategies to be refined in response to real-time
feedback and evolving circumstances. This flexible approach ensured that the interventions
remained relevant and effective throughout their deployment.
Monitoring and evaluation were embedded as integral components of the intervention
process, underpinned by the systematic guidance of the REMEDIS Canvas. This setup not only
allowed for the ongoing assessment of intervention effectiveness but also facilitated the
necessary adjustments to enhance programme outcomes continuously. Feedback loops
played a crucial role in this phase, enabling the capture of detailed insights from all
stakeholders involved, which in turn helped refine the interventions further.
However, the execution of these programmes was not without challenges. Feedback during
the co-development stages frequently pointed to various organisational and national context
issues, such as resource limitations and cultural sensitivities. These challenges required a
proactive and strategic response, ensuring that interventions could be successfully
implemented despite these hurdles.
The formulation of data collection strategies also encountered significant limitations,
particularly with regard to session attendance and participant availability. This affected the
breadth of data coverage, prompting a greater reliance on qualitative insights to complement
the quantitative data, thereby ensuring a more comprehensive understanding of the
intervention impacts.
The questionnaire development was a meticulous process, designed to gather relevant data
across various domains—from socio-demographic information to digital skills and
intervention outcomes. The structured application of this questionnaire in different
scenarios—ranging from ideal to minimal—highlighted the adaptability of our data collection
approach, accommodating different resource availabilities and intervention settings.
In synthesising both quantitative and qualitative data, our analysis (in REMEDIS reports D3.1
and D3.2) will provide a dual perspective on the effectiveness of the interventions. While
quantitative data offers a statistical evaluation of outcomes, qualitative insights reveal the
nuanced experiences and perceptions of participants, providing a deeper understanding of
the interventions' impacts.
60
This report not only underscores the efficacy of the REMEDIS Canvas in navigating the
complexities of intervention development and implementation but also sets a precedent for
future projects. It offers critical insights and strategic recommendations that will undoubtedly
enrich the design and execution of similar initiatives moving forward. As we continue to refine
our methods and strategies, the lessons learned from this extensive analysis will guide our
efforts to enhance the effectiveness and reach of intervention programmes tailored to meet
the diverse needs of communities worldwide.
61
Acknowledgements
The authors are grateful for the generous collaboration of their colleagues in REMEDIS, and
for the critical suggestions that helped improve this report.
62
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Appendix 1: Recommendations shared with non-academic partners/intervention
providers based on the Systematic Literature review (ESTONIA).
Participant Engagement and Needs Assessment
v Plan Engaging Activities:
1. Activate participants by designing dynamic and immersive learning experiences
that encourage active engagement.
2. Identify the individual needs of participants and, whenever feasible, structure tasks
to facilitate collaboration among participants who share similar needs, promoting
effective discussion and joint participation in activities.
3. Consider participants' digital and media literacy skills when planning activities,
utilizing a brief questionnaire for assessment.
v Collecting Participant Information:
4. Carefully consider which characteristics of the participants are crucial for achieving
the activity's objectives most effectively. Additionally, strategize on how to gather
this essential information about participants.
5. Collect data about participants to understand them better and tailor learning
opportunities to their zone of proximal development, ensuring topics and activities
are neither too simple nor too complex.
6. Create homogeneous participant groups by carefully selecting binding
commonalities. Devise strategies for effectively collecting the required information to
inform group formation.
v Group Dynamics and Trust Building:
7. Offer participants opportunities for idea exchange, collaborative work, and peer
learning, both during sessions and between sessions when additional support is
necessary.
8. Divide participants into smaller groups where mutual trust can be cultivated. In such
intimate settings with shared interests, individuals are more inclined to openly share
thoughts and learn from one another.
Activity Planning and Evaluation
v Duration and Intensity of Intervention:
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9. Determine the appropriate duration and intensity of the intervention to achieve
desired changes effectively.
v External Evaluation and Expert Involvement:
10.
To assess the effectiveness of the intervention and prevent recurring failures,
engage trustworthy and impartial external experts in the evaluation process. These
experts should utilize reliable and recognized evaluation methods.
11.
Employ both pre- and post-assessments, along with observations, to
comprehensively evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention and measure its
impact on participants.
Facilitator and Training Considerations
v Expert Facilitators:
12.
Engage experts as facilitators to lead the intervention, ensuring they possess
essential expertise in content knowledge, pedagogical skills, and theoretical
understanding. Facilitators should undergo training as necessary to optimize their
effectiveness in guiding intervention activities.
v Guidance in Activity Planning:
13.
Throughout the training, provide guidance to participants in structuring their
activities using appropriate theoretical frameworks, such as ICAP, the digital
competence model, or self-determination theory
Practical Implementation and Support
v Independent Practice Opportunities:
14. Create opportunities for participants to practice independently outside of formal
learning sessions.
v Consideration of Time Constraints:
15. When designing activities, take into account the availability of participants in terms
of scheduling (dates, duration of activities) and consider any other commitments
they may have.
v Sufficient Practical Time and Personal Guidance:
16. Allocate enough time for participants to practically engage in activities and receive
personal guidance.
Goal Setting and Autonomy
v Setting Personal Goals:
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17.
Encourage participants to set personal goals at the beginning of the training to
enhance engagement and motivation.
v Perceived Autonomy of Participants:
18.
Ensure participants perceive autonomy in their learning process to avoid fatigue
and boredom.
19. Think through that each activity would be meaningful and engaging for the
participants.
Technical Accessibility
v Addressing Technical Obstacles:
20.
Ensure participants have no technical obstacles related to planned activities,
including access to tools and software.
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