The Concept of Teacher Digital Competence: A Literature Review

Abstract

The implementation of digital technologies in teaching has demonstrated the importance of teacher digital competence (TDC) as a key element in educating 21st-century citizens. The complex nature of TDC makes it challenging to find a definition that encompasses the full meaning of the term. This paper offers a systematic literature review based on the PRISMA Statement, analyzing the definitions of TDC in 31 publications with the aim of identifying their similarities and differences and reviewing their relationship with the dimensions that make up TDC. The results show an imbalance in the dimensions present, and notably, an almost universal absence of the relational, ethical and security dimension. The paper concludes by offering an integrative definition of TDC that enables teachers and educational institutions to understand the scope of this professional competence.