Alberto Hernández de Pedro, from BDM Formación Integra, explains how the Digital Adaptation program, driven by the Aragonese Employment Institute (INAEM) and funded by the Government of Aragon, is helping thousands of Aragonese people navigate the digital society with autonomy.
What is Digital Adaptation and why was this program created?
The Digital Adaptation program is a free training initiative developed by the Aragonese Employment Institute (INAEM) and financed by the Government of Aragon through the Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Program. It was created in response to the need to digitally empower the Aragonese population to face the current challenges of a digital economy and society.
Who is this program aimed at and who can enroll?
The program is aimed at the general Aragonese population, specifically individuals over 16 years old who feel the need to enhance their digital skills to navigate daily activities with autonomy, confidence, and security.
When we talk about «maneuvering in the digital world,» what do we mean in daily life?
We are referring to having the necessary autonomy and proficiency to carry out the everyday activities that current society demands through technology. Specifically, the program aims for the Aragonese population to be able to perform concrete daily tasks such as completing administrative procedures, securely using mobile devices, learning to navigate, searching for and filtering digital content for personal activities, and utilizing artificial intelligence.
What digital deficiencies did you identify before launching this initiative?
The digital deficiencies identified for the launch of this program focus on the inability of a significant portion of the Aragonese population to perform basic and autonomous actions in a digital society. Among the most notable examples is the difficulty many citizens face when interacting with public administration, which prevents them from independently managing essential services like access to healthcare. Additionally, a lack of skills to perform secure banking transactions and online shopping was identified, as well as a low capacity to navigate, filter, and assess the veracity of information circulating online. Finally, the program addresses the need to rectify the lack of competencies in rural and demographically declining areas, where low digital training limits both social inclusion and quality job and business opportunities.
The program offers 40 courses: how are they organized and what levels do they cover?
The courses are at basic and intermediate levels, organized into four fundamental competency areas for effective interaction in today’s digital society: Digital Literacy, Communication and Collaboration, Digital Content Creation, and Security. Once a participant registers on the platform www.adaptaciondigital.es, they can enroll in any of these 40 courses, classified in the aforementioned competency areas.
Can someone who is starting from scratch, with no prior knowledge, enroll?
Of course. Several basic level courses are available, which, when conducted online, come with support from a team of tutors and instructors on the platform for any questions participants may have. In the case of in-person courses, a member of the teaching team travels to deliver the course.
What types of courses are most in demand among students?
Currently, we have issued more than 13,500 accredited certificates. Of these, over 2,000 certificates correspond to the course «ChatGPT: Make Artificial Intelligence Your Best Ally.» Other highly demanded courses include «Cl@ve: My Electronic Identification with Public Administration,» «My Mobile is Not Secure. Learning to Protect It,» and «Getting the Most out of WhatsApp.»
Why was it important to combine online training with in-person courses?
The combination of in-person and online training ensures inclusion and pedagogical effectiveness by providing in-person support for basic levels and facilitating access for users with some digital background to a platform that allows flexible and autonomous learning.
How does the telephone support service function for those with difficulties using the platform?
The telephone support service of the Digital Adaptation project is designed to ensure that no participant halts their learning due to technical issues or questions about the program. We have a team prepared to address and respond to general inquiries about the training program, resolve technical issues when interacting with the platform, and manage incidents that may arise during the courses.
What impact is the program having on the employability and autonomy of participants?
We are observing that the program facilitates the improvement of skills necessary to adapt to an economy and society in constant digital transformation. By acquiring digital skills, participants can access new professional profiles and take advantage of business opportunities that were previously inaccessible to them.
What profile of students is participating most in Digital Adaptation?
The Digital Adaptation program is designed to reach the entire Aragonese population but places special emphasis on those profiles that are most vulnerable to the digital divide.
- 46% of participants are over 55 years old.
- Nearly 30% of students reside in rural areas.
- 63% of participants in the program are women, of whom 28% live in rural areas.
- 25% of those who have obtained an official certification have no formal education or only primary education.
This program is driven by the Aragonese Employment Institute and financed by the Government of Aragon through the Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Program. What value does it have for public administrations to support this type of training?
It has tremendous value. The fact that public administrations lead and finance such initiatives carries immeasurable strategic and social value. Supporting these projects makes technology an accessible right for all Aragonese citizens, helping to eliminate barriers of age, gender, or place of residence.
For someone who is hesitant, what would you say to encourage them to enroll?
I would encourage them to try one. Not to be afraid. Digitalization is moving rapidly, and we cannot allow anyone to be left behind. Regardless of their previous knowledge level, Digital Adaptation is for everyone. It’s easy: you sign up on the portal www.adaptaciondigital.es, and you can access more than 40 courses with an official certificate upon completion. You will learn useful things for real life, you won’t get bored, and you will surely be motivated to continue with the next one.
