Digital competence and digital technology: a curriculum analysis of Norwegian early childhood teacher education

Abstract

This paper explores how digital competence and digital technology are addressed in Norwegian early childhood teacher education (ECTE). The aim is to provide a national overview of the ECTE institutions’ programme and relevant course plans to identify how the preservice teachers are being prepared for their future professional life as digitally competent early childhood teachers. We have conducted a summative content analysis of national regulations, national guidelines, programme and course plans by drawing on Goodlad et al.’s curriculum theory. The findings demonstrate that digital competence and digital technology are clearly emphasised and addressed at the ideological curriculum level but less so at the formal and perceived levels. Data shows that there is a need to define and operationalise professional digital competence from an ECTE perspective. Furthermore, there is a need to more explicitly describe the learning outcomes in the programme and course plans, focusing on both theoretical and practical aspects.