Enhancing Digital Inclusion in Adults’ Education: Impact of the DigIN Project on Social Work and Educational Practices in a Digitally Evolving Society

Abstract

The article “Enhancing Digital Inclusion in Adult Education: Impact of the DigIN Project on Social Work and Educational Practices in a Digitally Evolving Society†addresses the very urgent topic of digital inclusion within adult education in the frame of social work. Considering further digitisation of society, effort should urgently be made to improve digital competencies among different population groups to guarantee equity of access and participation. This study aims to evaluate the DigIN project, a structured adult education intervention to enhance digital social inclusion by training educators and Adult Education Organisations. It combines a mixed-method approach of the theoretical review and the implementation of the cooperative project management model, referred to as TEAMWORK. The TEAMWORK model is a systematic framework that has been quintessential to planning and implementing cooperative projects of adult education. The study includes a desk review of the latest strategies on digital inclusion, the document analysis of the Erasmus+ Programme Guide, and case studies representing different stages of the DigIN project. From the preliminary results, the proposed model of TEAMWORK appeared to be properly structuring the DigIN project to enhance collaborative outcomes, manage resources better, and keep aligned with the priorities of Erasmus+ KA204. The key findings are that it is a step-by-step process that facilitates focused teams in making and setting goals. An essential factor in developing shared objectives is vital in digital inclusion. The study concludes that the frequency of monitoring with transparent communication enhances stakeholders’ input and flexibility. At the same time, robust outcome evaluation and risk management assure responsiveness to the new challenges presented by digital education. This research contributes uniquely to the knowledge of structured collaboration to reduce digital marginalisation and promote equity and lifelong learning across diverse populations. By integrating the TEAMWORK model with Erasmus+ guidelines, results were presented in a replicated framework to advance digital competence among educators and further inclusive educational practices within an evolving digital landscape. Ultimately, the study underlines digital inclusion as an integral part of social work within a digitally changing society and promotes sustainable practice to enhance adult education frameworks.