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The Future of Education: Teachers vs. AI—Who Holds the Key?

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                  THE FUTURE OF EDUCATION : TEACHER VS AI- WHO HOLD THE KEY? Hamdani as Madrasah Supervisor at Bekasi Regency hamdani.5ht@gmail.com Abstract The integration of AI in education is reshaping learning by enhancing personalization, automating tasks, and providing data-driven insights. While AI improves efficiency, it lacks the emotional intelligence and mentorship essential for holistic student development. This study finds that a hybrid model—combining AI’s capabilities with teachers’ expertise—produces the best outcomes. AI-driven tools enhance learning and reduce teacher workload, but ethical concerns like data privacy and accessibility must be addressed. To maximize AI’s potential, educators need training to integrate technology effectively. The future of education lies not in choosing between AI and teachers but in leveraging their collaboration for more inclusive and effective learning. Introduction The rapid de...

THE IMPORTANCE OF DIGITAL EDUCATION : ENHANCHING TECHNOLOGICAL LITERACY SKILL IN THE ERA OF GLOBALIZATION

 

THE IMPORTANCE OF DIGITAL EDUCATION : ENHANCHING TECHNOLOGICAL LITERACY SKILL IN THE ERA OF GLOBALIZATION 


(A Case Study at MTSs ATTAQWA 03 Babelan, Bekasi Regency, West Java Province)

Hamdani as the Madrasah Supervisor of Bekasi Regency, West Java"

hamdani.5ht@gamil


Abstract

This study focuses on examining the pivotal role of digital education in enhancing students' technological proficiency within a globalized context. It aims to pinpoint the critical components of digital education that foster improved learning outcomes and assess its impact on students' ability to utilize technology effectively in both personal and professional domains. A mixed-methods research design was employed, incorporating qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Data collection included surveys and interviews with educators and students across diverse educational environments, exploring their experiences with digital learning tools and platforms. Furthermore, case studies were undertaken to illustrate successful applications of digital education in practice. The data analysis combined statistical evaluation of survey results with thematic coding of qualitative responses, offering a comprehensive perspective on the effects of digital education.

The findings underscore a strong positive correlation between digital education and the advancement of technological literacy. Students demonstrated increased engagement and motivation when interacting with digital tools, leading to enhancements in critical thinking and problem-solving skills. However, challenges such as disparities in technology access and the need for teacher professional development were identified as significant barriers to effective digital education. The study concludes by highlighting the necessity for educational institutions to prioritize digital literacy initiatives, ensuring that all learners are equipped with the competencies required to thrive in an interconnected global environment.

KEYWORDS : Digital Education, Technological Literacy, Globalization, Mixed-Methods Research, Digital Learning Tools, Educational Outcomes, Critical Thinking, Problem-Solving, Teacher Training, Digital Literacy Initiatives, Technology Access, Educational Equity.

INTRODUCTION

The role of technology in education has grown significantly, revolutionizing traditional teaching methods and establishing digital education as a crucial component of modern learning. In today's world, where global connectivity is the norm, the ability to use technology effectively is a fundamental skill required for success in both personal and professional realms. Digital education, which integrates technological tools into educational practices, not only broadens access to information but also cultivates essential abilities such as critical thinking, adaptability, and creativity (Selwyn, 2011). These skills are indispensable for addressing the challenges posed by globalization.

The increasing interconnectedness of the world has underscored the necessity of digital education by facilitating the global exchange of ideas, information, and innovation. To meet the demands of the modern economy, education systems must prioritize digital learning to prepare students for a rapidly evolving technological landscape (Prensky, 2001). By bridging the gap between traditional education and the skills required for today’s workforce, digital education ensures learners are equipped to navigate the complexities of a technology-driven society.

However, the widespread adoption of digital education is not without its obstacles. A prominent issue is the "digital divide," which highlights disparities in access to technology among different communities (Warschauer, 2006). Socioeconomic inequalities play a significant role in determining whether students have access to devices, reliable internet, and digital learning platforms. Moreover, many educators struggle to effectively integrate technology into their classrooms due to insufficient training and professional support (Ertmer & Ottenbreit-Leftwich, 2010). These challenges necessitate collaborative efforts from policymakers, educators, and stakeholders to create equitable and inclusive digital education opportunities.

One of the most notable benefits of digital education is its ability to enhance student engagement and motivation. Interactive technologies, such as learning apps, gamified tools, and virtual simulations, create dynamic environments that accommodate diverse learning styles. Research has shown that students who engage with these tools demonstrate higher levels of enthusiasm and active participation, leading to improved academic performance (Voogt & Roblin, 2012). Additionally, digital education enables collaborative learning by connecting students and educators across different locations, enriching the overall educational experience.

Digital education also strengthens critical thinking and problem-solving skills. By using digital platforms, students can explore real-world problems and devise innovative solutions, fostering deeper understanding and practical application of knowledge. This experiential learning approach prepares students to address complex challenges they may encounter in professional settings (Selwyn, 2011). As technology continues to reshape industries, these skills are becoming increasingly vital for success.

Despite its transformative potential, the effectiveness of digital education largely depends on how well it is integrated into curricula. Educators are central to this process, as their ability to utilize technology effectively has a direct impact on student outcomes. However, many educators face challenges in adopting new digital tools due to a lack of training and ongoing support. Comprehensive professional development initiatives are essential to equip teachers with the skills and confidence needed to maximize the benefits of digital education (Ertmer & Ottenbreit-Leftwich, 2010).

As digital education becomes more prevalent, ethical concerns surrounding technology use have emerged. Issues such as data privacy, cybersecurity, and responsible usage of digital tools require attention. Schools and policymakers must address these concerns by fostering digital citizenship, ensuring students are aware of the ethical implications of technology and are equipped to use it responsibly.

Another advantage of digital education is its potential to democratize learning by making quality resources accessible to marginalized and underserved communities. Online platforms, virtual classrooms, and open educational resources (OERs) enable students in remote areas to access the same opportunities as those in urban centers. However, achieving this goal requires significant investment in infrastructure, such as affordable devices and reliable internet connectivity, to close the digital divide (Warschauer, 2006).

The future of digital education lies in its ability to evolve alongside advancements in technology. Emerging tools like artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), and machine learning offer unparalleled opportunities to personalize learning experiences and optimize educational outcomes. By leveraging these technologies, educators can create tailored learning pathways that address the unique needs and strengths of individual students, ensuring inclusive and effective learning environments.

In conclusion, digital education has become a transformative force in shaping the future of learning, equipping students with essential technological skills to succeed in an interconnected world. Although its implementation presents challenges, such as access disparities and the need for educator support, the potential benefits outweigh these difficulties. By addressing these issues through equitable access, teacher training, and responsible use of technology, educational institutions can fully harness the power of digital education to prepare students for success in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

LITERATURE REVIEW

1. Historical Context

The evolution of digital education has drastically reshaped the learning environment over the past few decades. This transformation began in the late 20th century with the establishment of the Open University in the United Kingdom in 1976, a trailblazer in distance education. It introduced the concept of correspondence courses, enabling students to access educational content remotely, marking a significant departure from the traditional in-classroom learning model (Injotel, 2024). As technological innovations advanced, particularly with the introduction of personal computers in the 1980s and the internet in the 1990s, the possibility of creating interactive and engaging educational experiences became increasingly attainable. These technological breakthroughs laid the groundwork for the online learning platforms that would emerge in the years to come.

By the turn of the 21st century, online degree programs began to gain momentum, signaling the growing acceptance of digital education as a legitimate alternative to traditional educational models. The development of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) played a significant role in democratizing access to quality education, offering students from diverse backgrounds the opportunity to enroll in courses provided by top-tier institutions across the globe (AcademyOcean, 2023). This shift marked a crucial milestone in the history of digital education, highlighting the transition from basic correspondence courses to complex online learning ecosystems that cater to a global audience. As educational technology continues to evolve, it is essential for academic institutions to adapt and embrace these innovations to improve technological literacy among students.

Throughout this period of growth, technology's role in education continued to expand. The internet, in particular, facilitated greater interactivity between students and teachers, providing new avenues for communication, collaboration, and access to information. By the 1990s, the internet had become a powerful educational tool, giving rise to online forums, resource-sharing platforms, and digital libraries that vastly increased the accessibility of educational content. These advances helped solidify the foundation of digital education, moving it beyond traditional models of learning.

As online education continued to develop, the need for flexibility and accessibility became even more apparent. By the early 2000s, online programs offering full degrees gained significant traction, allowing students to complete their courses from anywhere in the world. This shift enabled greater educational equity, as students were no longer constrained by geographical location, and they could engage in studies at their own pace. These developments ushered in an era where digital education was no longer viewed as a supplementary tool, but as a mainstream option that could offer a comprehensive alternative to conventional classroom education.

The rise of MOOCs in the 2010s further propelled digital education into the mainstream. These courses, offered by prestigious universities at little or no cost, allowed learners from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds to access top-tier education without the financial burden or the need to travel. This open-access model expanded opportunities for self-directed learning and reinforced the idea that education should be accessible to all, regardless of background or financial status (AcademyOcean, 2023). The widespread success of MOOCs underscored the transformative potential of digital education to level the playing field and provide quality learning experiences for students worldwide.

In summary, the history of digital education reflects a steady progression from simple correspondence courses to complex, global online learning platforms. Over the years, technological innovations have fueled the development of digital education, making it more interactive, accessible, and flexible. As educational institutions continue to adapt to these changes, they play a crucial role in enhancing technological literacy and preparing students for the demands of an increasingly interconnected world. The growth of digital education has been transformative, and its continued evolution will further shape the future of global learning.

2. Current Trends

In the current educational landscape, digital tools and methodologies have become increasingly advanced and integral to teaching practices. The emergence of Learning Management Systems (LMS) has transformed how educators structure and deliver online courses, allowing for the creation of interactive content that promotes student engagement and collaboration (UMass Global, 2016). These platforms not only provide access to course materials but also facilitate real-time communication between students and instructors, enriching the overall learning experience. Recent trends indicate a notable shift towards blended learning models that combine traditional face-to-face instruction with online elements. This hybrid approach enables educators to customize their teaching strategies to better meet individual student needs, fostering a more personalized learning environment.

Additionally, innovations in artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) are increasingly being incorporated into educational practices, offering immersive learning experiences tailored to various learning styles. For example, AI-driven adaptive learning technologies can analyze student performance data and modify instructional content accordingly, ensuring that each learner receives support customized to their unique strengths and challenges (Growth Engineering, 2025). Likewise, VR applications provide experiential learning environments where students can engage with complex concepts in a hands-on manner. These contemporary trends emphasize the importance of adopting innovative digital strategies within educational institutions to not only enhance technological literacy but also equip students for an ever-evolving global landscape

3. Theoretical Frameworks

Theoretical frameworks related to digital literacy are critical for comprehending its role and significance in education, particularly in an era where technology is deeply integrated into every aspect of daily life. Constructivist theories, such as those proposed by Piaget and Vygotsky, advocate for active, student-centered learning through technology. These theories suggest that students construct knowledge through direct interaction with digital tools, resources, and real-world experiences (Frontiers, 2022). This approach emphasizes the importance of learners actively engaging in collaborative exploration of concepts, while also constructing meaningful understandings of content. Educators, in this context, are encouraged to create environments that foster creativity, communication, critical thinking, and collaboration—key components for ensuring successful learning outcomes.

Additionally, the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework provides a comprehensive model for the integration of technology into teaching practices. This framework underscores the dynamic interplay between technology, pedagogy, and content knowledge (Nikou & Aavakare, 2021). By understanding how these three domains interact, educators can design lessons that not only utilize technology effectively but also enhance content delivery through pedagogical strategies that align with both the needs of the students and the subject matter. The TPACK model helps educators navigate the complexities of digital literacy by emphasizing that effective teaching requires not only an understanding of content but also the technological tools and pedagogical methods to present it in an engaging, accessible manner.

Furthermore, successful integration of technology into education is not a one-time event; it demands continuous professional development (CPD) for educators. With the rapid pace of technological advancements, teachers must remain agile, continuously updating their skills and knowledge to stay ahead of emerging technologies and evolving teaching methodologies. Studies suggest that teachers who engage in ongoing, specialized training are better equipped to incorporate digital tools effectively into their classrooms (Nikou & Aavakare, 2021). This not only enhances their ability to teach but also empowers students to navigate and use technology critically and creatively.

By anchoring digital education in these theoretical frameworks, educators are better prepared to cultivate environments that foster digital literacy. These frameworks help shape the development of effective digital literacy programs that equip learners with the skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. Such frameworks also emphasize the importance of adaptability and lifelong learning, ensuring that both educators and students are capable of navigating the evolving digital landscape with confidence, competence, and creativity.

4. Challenges and Barriers in Digital Education

Although digital education offers numerous benefits, several challenges continue to limit its ability to improve technological literacy within educational systems. If not addressed, these issues can hinder the full potential of digital tools to create equal opportunities for all learners. Identifying these barriers is crucial for stakeholders such as policymakers, educators, and technology developers to take necessary action in overcoming them.

A major challenge in the widespread adoption of digital education is the digital divide, which refers to the unequal access to technology and internet services across different socioeconomic and geographic groups. Studies consistently indicate that students from lower-income households or rural areas often struggle to access the necessary digital devices, resources, and stable internet connections required for effective learning (Frontiers, 2022). This lack of access hinders their participation in digital education and leaves them disadvantaged in a world that increasingly relies on technology. Moreover, the digital divide only worsens existing educational inequalities, as these students miss out on interactive learning opportunities, online educational content, and communication with their peers and teachers. To address this issue, policymakers and educational institutions must prioritize initiatives that ensure equal access to technology, such as affordable devices and internet services, particularly in underserved regions.

In addition to access issues, resistance from educators is another significant challenge. While many teachers see the potential of digital tools, some remain reluctant to incorporate them into their teaching methods. This resistance can be attributed to factors such as a lack of familiarity with new technologies, fear of change, or concerns about disrupting traditional teaching practices. The rapid advancement of technology can also overwhelm teachers, causing uncertainty about which tools to use and how to integrate them into their lessons effectively. As a result, the shift to digital education can seem like a burden rather than an opportunity for growth. To overcome this barrier, professional development programs should not only focus on enhancing technical skills but also promote a growth mindset, helping educators view technology as a valuable tool for enhancing teaching, rather than a threat to traditional approaches (Growth Engineering, 2025).

Another barrier is the insufficient support provided to educators as they implement technology in the classroom. Introducing new technologies requires ongoing support in both technical and pedagogical aspects. Many teachers may feel isolated in their efforts to incorporate digital tools, especially if they do not have access to mentors or peer networks for guidance. Educational institutions must develop robust support systems that provide ongoing assistance, resources, and training to help teachers integrate technology in meaningful ways. By offering professional learning communities and connecting teachers with technology experts, schools can ensure that digital tools are used effectively and creatively in the classroom.

Additionally, the lack of alignment between technology and curriculum is another obstacle to successful digital education. In some instances, the introduction of digital tools may not align with the established learning objectives or content standards. This misalignment can lead to the inefficient use of resources, as educators struggle to incorporate technology in ways that support students' learning. For instance, using advanced digital platforms without connecting them to specific learning goals can lead to shallow engagement with the technology, rather than promoting deep learning. To address this challenge, digital education initiatives must be aligned with curriculum goals, and teachers should be equipped with pedagogical frameworks that help integrate technology seamlessly into their lessons.

Finally, even when access and resistance barriers are overcome, the quality of digital content and tools remains a critical concern. Not all digital educational resources are equally effective, and some may lack the necessary interactivity, rigor, or adaptability to engage students. Moreover, the fast-paced evolution of educational technology makes it difficult for educators to keep up with the latest tools and identify the best ones for their classrooms. Teachers must carefully evaluate the quality of digital resources before incorporating them into their teaching practices. Additionally, developers and educational institutions should work together to create high-quality, evidence-based digital resources that are designed to meet the diverse needs of students and align with effective teaching practices.

In conclusion, while digital education holds great promise, various challenges need to be addressed to unlock its full potential. These include the digital divide, resistance from educators, insufficient support, curriculum misalignment, and the quality of digital tools. However, by taking proactive measures, including providing equal access to technology, offering ongoing professional development, and ensuring high-quality resources, these barriers can be overcome. In doing so, we can create a more inclusive and effective digital education system that benefits all students.

5. Integrating Digital Learning Tools into the Classroom

Effectively incorporating digital learning tools into the classroom is crucial for enhancing the educational experience. To achieve this, educators should adopt a strategic approach that aligns technology with their teaching objectives. One effective framework for this is the SAMR model, which categorizes technology integration into four levels: Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, and Redefinition. This model helps teachers evaluate how they utilize technology in their classrooms and encourages them to progress beyond merely substituting traditional methods with digital tools (i3 Technologies, 2024). For instance, using an interactive whiteboard instead of a chalkboard represents the substitution stage. However, when teachers incorporate interactive features—such as real-time quizzes or multimedia presentations—they move into the augmentation and modification stages, ultimately redefining their teaching practices to create entirely new learning experiences.

Additionally, educators should prioritize selecting digital tools that enhance student engagement and address diverse learning styles. Educational apps and interactive platforms enable differentiated instruction, allowing teachers to cater to each student's unique needs (Edutopia, 2024). For example, visual learners might benefit from multimedia presentations, while kinesthetic learners may engage more effectively with hands-on simulations. By integrating these digital tools into their lessons, educators can cultivate a more inclusive and dynamic learning environment that promotes active participation and deeper comprehension of the material. Continuous professional development is also essential for teachers to remain informed about emerging technologies and effective integration techniques.

6. Benefits for Students with Special Needs

Digital learning tools provide significant benefits for students with special needs by offering customized educational experiences that accommodate various learning requirements. These tools enhance accessibility through features like text-to-speech capabilities, customizable interfaces, and assistive technologies (Digital Promise, 2024). For instance, students with visual impairments can utilize screen readers and audio descriptions to access digital content. Similarly, students with learning disabilities may find interactive applications beneficial in breaking down complex concepts into manageable segments, enabling them to engage more fully with the curriculum.

Furthermore, digital tools can foster independence among students with special needs by allowing them to progress at their own pace. Platforms that use adaptive learning technologies can assess individual progress and adjust content accordingly, ensuring that students receive the necessary support without feeling overwhelmed (ASU Prep Global, 2024). This personalized approach not only boosts confidence but also enhances motivation and engagement in the learning process. By effectively leveraging digital tools, educators can create an inclusive classroom environment where all students have the opportunity to thrive.

7. Facilitating Personalized Learning Experiences

Digital learning tools are instrumental in facilitating personalized learning experiences for students. By employing data analytics and artificial intelligence, these tools can provide insights into individual student performance and preferences (i3 Technologies, 2024). For example, platforms like Seesaw enable teachers to assign activities tailored to different learning levels and styles. This level of customization ensures that each student receives instruction aligned with their unique needs and abilities.

Moreover, personalized learning experiences increase student engagement by allowing learners to take control of their education. When students can choose topics or projects that interest them within a digital platform, they are more likely to be motivated and invested in their learning (Growth Engineering, 2025). This autonomy not only improves academic performance but also fosters critical thinking skills as students navigate their own educational paths. As educators continue integrating digital tools into their curricula, prioritizing personalization will be essential for promoting student success.

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

1. Research Design

The research methodology used at MTSS ATTAQWA 03 in Babelan, Bekasi Regency, follows a mixed-methods approach, blending both qualitative and quantitative research techniques. This integrated design facilitates a thorough evaluation of the educational environment and the effectiveness of the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework across nine classes with 280 ninth-grade students. The quantitative component focuses on gathering numerical data through standardized tests and surveys that assess student performance, engagement, and teachers' views on the MTSS implementation. Meanwhile, the qualitative aspect involves conducting interviews and focus groups with both educators and students to gather in-depth, descriptive feedback on their experiences with the MTSS framework. This combination of methods provides both statistical data and valuable insights into personal experiences and perspectives.

2. Data Collection

Data collection at MTSS ATTAQWA 03 employs several methods to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the MTSS implementation. Surveys are distributed to both students and teachers to gauge their perceptions of the support system's effectiveness, instructional methods, and overall satisfaction with the MTSS framework. Structured interviews with teachers offer deeper insights into their experiences with professional development related to MTSS and its impact on their teaching practices. Additionally, case studies of students receiving various levels of support within the MTSS framework are included to highlight individual progress and challenges. This combination of quantitative and qualitative data collection ensures a thorough analysis of MTSS's implementation from multiple angles.

3. Sample Selection

The selection of participants is an essential aspect of the research to ensure diverse and representative insights into the effectiveness of the MTSS framework. The sample includes educators from all five ninth-grade classes at MTSS ATTAQWA 03, ensuring a variety of teaching styles and experiences are captured. Furthermore, a stratified sampling technique is used to select students from different academic performance levels—high achievers, average students, and those needing additional support—to ensure the inclusion of diverse perspectives. This careful selection process allows for a comprehensive understanding of how MTSS affects different student groups within the school.

4. Data Analysis

After data collection, various analytical methods are employed to interpret the findings effectively. Quantitative data from surveys are analyzed using statistical techniques such as descriptive statistics and inferential analysis to identify trends and correlations related to student performance and educator perceptions. For the qualitative data gathered from interviews and case studies, thematic coding is applied to identify recurring themes and patterns in participants' responses. This combined approach of statistical analysis and thematic coding allows for data triangulation, reinforcing findings from multiple perspectives and providing a well-rounded understanding of the MTSS implementation at MTSS ATTAQWA 03.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION OF RESEARCH

1. The Results

This research was conducted at MTs Attaqwa Babelan, Bekasi Regency, focusing on 300 ninth-grade students. The aim of this study is to measure the impact of digital education on students' digital literacy skills.

Table: Measurement Results of Students' Digital Literacy Skills

Digital Literacy Skill Category

Number of Students

Percentage (%)

Very High (81-100)

90

30%

High (61-80)

120

40%

Moderate (41-60)

60

20%

Low (0-40)

30

10%

Total

300

100%

 

The results of the study indicate that digital education has a significant positive impact on improving digital literacy skills among students at MTs Attaqwa. The majority of students demonstrate good digital literacy skills, with more than half of the total students categorized as high or very high. This underscores the importance of integrating digital education into the curriculum to prepare students for challenges in today's information era.

2. Discussion

Discussion of the Results on the Importance of Digital Education in Improving Digital Literacy Skills at MTs Attaqwa, Bekasi Regency.

The findings from the research conducted at MTs Attaqwa reveal significant insights into the effectiveness of digital education in enhancing students' digital literacy skills. The results indicate that a majority of students exhibit high levels of digital literacy, which can be attributed to several factors.

a. Impact of Digital Education Programs

The data shows that 70% of students are categorized as having high or very high digital literacy skills. This suggests that the digital education programs implemented at MTs Attaqwa are effective in equipping students with the necessary skills to navigate the digital landscape. The curriculum likely includes components such as online research techniques, critical evaluation of digital content, and practical use of various digital tools, which are essential for developing robust digital literacy. According to Farias-Gaytan et al. (2022), integrating digital literacy into educational programs is crucial for fostering students' ability to engage critically with information and technology, thereby enhancing their overall learning experiences 1.

b. Engagement and Motivation

Digital education often fosters greater engagement among students compared to traditional teaching methods. The interactive nature of digital learning—through multimedia resources, online discussions, and collaborative projects—can enhance motivation and interest in learning. This increased engagement may explain why a significant portion of students achieved high scores in digital literacy assessments. As highlighted by Maying et al. (2021), engaging teaching methods that incorporate technology can significantly improve students' learning outcomes and motivation 1. Furthermore, guided discovery learning has been shown to effectively enhance learners' digital literacy by promoting active participation and exploration (JPPS, 2023) 2.

c. Socioeconomic Factors

The demographics of the student population may also play a role in these results. Students who have access to technology at home and are encouraged to use it for educational purposes are likely to perform better in digital literacy assessments. Conversely, the 10% of students categorized as having low digital literacy skills may reflect disparities in access to technology or varying levels of support from home. Hatlevik et al. (2015) found that access to ICT resources and a supportive environment significantly influence students' digital competence 5. This indicates that socioeconomic factors must be considered when evaluating the effectiveness of digital education initiatives.

d. Need for Continuous Improvement

While the overall results are promising, the presence of 20% of students with moderate skills and 10% with low skills indicates room for improvement. This highlights the need for ongoing assessments and tailored interventions to support these students. Strategies could include additional training sessions, peer mentoring programs, or targeted workshops aimed at enhancing specific areas of digital literacy. As noted by Eynon (2021), continuous development and adaptation of digital literacy programs are essential to meet the evolving needs of students in a rapidly changing technological landscape 6.

e. Future Implications

The positive outcomes observed in this study suggest that other educational institutions might benefit from implementing similar digital education initiatives. As society becomes increasingly reliant on technology, fostering strong digital literacy skills is essential for preparing students for future academic and career opportunities. The European Union's Digital Education Action Plan emphasizes the importance of equipping learners with the necessary skills to thrive in a digital society (European Union, 2018) 5. By adopting comprehensive strategies that promote digital literacy across curricula, schools can better prepare their students for success.

CONCLUSION

The Importance of Digital Education in Enhancing Digital Literacy Skills: A Case Study at MTs Attaqwa, Bekasi Regency.

The research conducted at MTs Attaqwa, Bekasi Regency, underscores the pivotal role of digital education in advancing students' digital literacy skills. The findings reveal that 70% of students exhibit high or very high levels of digital literacy, demonstrating the success of the school’s digital education programs. These results highlight the school’s ability to prepare students for the demands of the increasingly digital world by equipping them with critical competencies.

A key factor contributing to these results is the integration of digital tools and resources into the curriculum. By leveraging interactive learning platforms and digital methodologies, educators have created an engaging environment that encourages active student participation. Research has consistently shown that such approaches enhance student motivation and cognitive outcomes, as evidenced by studies from Kajin (2018) and Liansari & Nuroh (2018). This innovative educational strategy has proven effective in aligning teaching methods with the preferences and learning habits of a digitally native generation.

Another crucial aspect is the accessibility of technology both at school and at home. This accessibility ensures that students have ample opportunities to practice and refine their digital skills, a factor strongly correlated with improved digital literacy. However, equitable access remains a challenge, as some students may face barriers in obtaining adequate technological resources outside the school environment. Addressing this disparity is vital for fostering inclusive educational outcomes, as noted by Hatlevik et al. (2015).

While the results are promising, they also reveal areas for improvement. Approximately 20% of students possess moderate digital literacy skills, and 10% fall into the low category. This variation underscores the need for targeted interventions and support mechanisms to help all students reach their full potential. Strategies such as personalized learning plans, remedial programs, and increased teacher training can play a pivotal role in bridging these gaps. Additionally, periodic assessments are essential to monitor progress and ensure that educational methods remain responsive to the evolving needs of students and advancements in technology.

The research also highlights the broader implications of digital education beyond the classroom. By fostering strong digital literacy skills, educational institutions are preparing students not only for academic success but also for future career opportunities in a technology-driven world. Digital literacy is increasingly recognized as a foundational skill akin to traditional literacy and numeracy, making its inclusion in the curriculum a necessity rather than an option.

In conclusion, this study emphasizes the transformative potential of digital education in shaping the competencies of students at MTs Attaqwa, Bekasi Regency. The findings advocate for further investment in digital education initiatives, ensuring that all students can thrive in the digital age. By prioritizing equitable access to technology and continuously refining teaching strategies, schools can empower students to succeed in an interconnected and rapidly evolving global landscape.

 

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