Digital Diwan: Bridging the Digital Competency Gap for Educators in Iraq

Abstract

In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, digital competency is crucial for educators to effectively integrate technology into their teaching practices and empower students in a technology-driven world. However, many educators, particularly in regions like Iraq, face significant gaps in their digital literacy, impeding their ability to fully utilize digital tools and resources in the classroom. This digital divide is particularly critical as education systems worldwide move toward more digital solutions, accelerated by the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the growing recognition of the need for digital competencies in teaching, there remains a lack of localized, accessible, and sustainable platforms for Iraqi educators to develop these essential skills. In light of this, the proposed project aims to bridge this gap by developing a web-based platform that focuses on improving digital competency among Iraqi educators. This platform, based on the DigCompEdu framework, will offer educators a range of tools and resources to assess and enhance their digital skills. The website will feature learning modules categorized according to the DigCompEdu framework’s areas and skills, a self-assessment tool, a library of digital resources, and a community space for collaboration and peer support. The goal is to empower educators with the digital skills they need to improve their teaching practices and to help learners acquire the necessary digital competencies. This platform will serve as a sustainable, accessible, and culturally relevant resource to support Iraq's educational transformation in the digital age.