Background

There is a clear need to strengthen the role of education and training in tackling disinformation and promoting digital literacy. The sooner we help young people acquire the digital skills and competences to be critical and confident users, the better.

Rapid advancement in digital technologies, as well as increased internet use, have fuelled the debate on the importance of preparing students to access, use, understand and critically assess all forms of media. 

According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), little over half of 15-year-olds in the European Union (EU) reported being taught how to detect whether information is subjective or biased.

Meanwhile, Eurobarometer data illustrates that 80% of Europeans think that the existence of fake news is a problem in their country. One third of eighth graders lack basic digital skills. (International Computer and Information Literacy Study - ICILS).

The Guidelines are a deliverable of the Digital Education Action Plan. They were developed with the support of a dedicated Commission Expert Group.

They are accompanied by a final report which brings together the Expert Group’s main findings and recommendations.

Discover the factsheet and infographic on the guidelines for teachers and educators on tackling disinformation and promoting digital literacy through education and training.