Essential digital skills framework
The essential digital skills framework defines the digital skills adults need to safely benefit from, participate in and contribute to the digital world.
Documents
Details
This framework has been designed to support providers, organisations and employers across the UK who offer training for adults to secure their essential digital skills.
It sets out 5 categories of essential digital skills for life and work:
- communicating
- handling information and content
- transacting
- problem-solving
- being safe and legal online
It also included information about foundation skills, which are typically required by those not currently using digital technology or using it in limited ways.
This is the first update of the basic digital skills framework since its original publication in 2015. Changes have been subject to wide consultation across:
- employers
- charities
- national and local government departments
- academics
- individuals
The most significant change to the framework is the introduction of specific skills statements for life and work, to show progression.
The framework informed development of the national essential digital skills standards.
Contact us
If you have questions about the essential digital skills framework or the national standards, contact the Adult Essential Skills Team.
Updates to this page
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Added link to new national standards for essential digital skills.
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First published.