Guest editorial: Active and transformative learning in higher education in times of artificial intelligence and ChatGPT

Abstract

1. Introduction to the theme In the green and digital transition, new skills are required for the new labor markets. National education and training systems need to adapt to the new demands of companies and governments, providing workers, students and citizens with the valuable digital skills needed today. And at the same time, this digital transformation must ensure the transition toward a greener and more inclusive economy and society (Alkhaldi et al., 2024, Alsaywid et al., 2023a, 2023b, Ordóñez de Pablos et al., 2020, 2022, 2023, 2024). In the case of the European Union, the Digital Education Action Plan (2021–2027) “aims to support the adaptation of the education and training systems of Member States to the digital age.” It contributes to “the goals of the European Skills Agenda, the European Social Pillar Action Plan and the 2030 Digital Compass: the European way for the Digital Decade” (European Commission, 2024a, 2024b). This plan has two key priorities: “Priority 1: Fostering the development of a high-performing digital education ecosystem” and “Priority 2: Enhancing digital skills and competences for the digital transformation”. In the case of Priority 2, Action 8 focuses on AI and data-related skills (European Commission, 2024a, 2024b).