Ottawa, April 13, 2021— COVID-19 marks a step-change acceleration in the adoption of online learning in Canadian education, which highlights the importance of acquiring new digital skills on the part of both educators and students while exploring the shift in the educator’s role to that of “learning guide” and “facilitator.”

ICTC’s second edtech report, 21st Century Digital Skills: Competencies, Innovations and Curriculum in Canada, identifies the top technical skills required by educators—digital literacy, information/media literacy, and Learning Management Systems [LMS] fluency—and the top “human” or soft/transferrable skills—digital curiosity, interpersonal communication, and confidence.

The report’s interviewees also identified the top technical and academic skills and competencies required by K-12 students (digital citizenship, digital fluency, coding, etc.) as well as the top human or transferrable skills that students will need, including critical thinking, communication, and adaptability, etc.

21st Century Digital Skills also explores:

  • Innovative approaches to the classroom integration of technologies such as 3D printing, AI, VR/AR, Apps, Gamification, and LMS tools
  • Discussion of procurement models in the context of barrier to technology adoption
  • Exploration of the three pillars of technology in education policy: gender/cultural/economic diversity

“Online learning has become a lifeline for schools across Canada in recent months. The promise of edtech in the classroom warrants careful considerations as to the longer-term prospects in creating rich learning experiences for tomorrow’s economy and labour market,” said Namir Anani, ICTC President and CEO.

The Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC) is a not-for-profit, national centre of expertise for strengthening Canada’s digital advantage in a global economy. Through trusted research, practical policy advice, and creative capacity-building programs, ICTC fosters globally competitive Canadian industries enabled by innovative and diverse digital talent. In partnership with an expansive network of industry leaders, academic partners, and policy makers from across Canada, ICTC has empowered a robust and inclusive digital economy for over 25 years.

To arrange an interview with the lead researcher on this report or other media inquiries, please contact Paul Stastny at @email or 403.351.0138 Ext. 823.

A copy of the study can be accessed here.

A French language version of this press release is available here.