Digital competency framework for school administrators

Abstract

           This academic article aims to present concepts, theories, and components of digital competence necessary for school administrators in basic education, as well as to analyze problems and propose guidelines for developing digital competence of basic education administrators in the context of Thai education. In an era where digital technology plays a crucial role in driving changes in education, school administrators need to possess appropriate digital competencies to effectively manage schools and promote learning that responds to the changes in the 21st century. By synthesizing concepts from scholars, the key components of digital competence for basic education administrators can be summarized into five areas: 1) digital knowledge and skills, 2) application of digital technology in management, 3) promotion of digital technology usage in teaching and learning, 4) development of teachers and educational personnel in digital aspects, and 5) ethics and safety in the use of digital technology. The development of digital competence for school administrators should be carried out systematically and continuously at policy, organizational, and individual levels through cooperation from all relevant sectors. This will lead to the enhancement of educational quality and the development of learners to acquire essential skills for living in the digital age.