The QUEST project successfully contributed to skilling educators in effectively using digital technologies in their teaching and training processes, aligning with the Digital Education Action Plan 2021-2027. By providing high-quality Instructional Design (ID) training, QUEST achieved its specific objectives: A) It harmonized the skills of the Instructional Designer profession at a European level, B) Facilitated the mobility of Instructional Designers across Europe, C) Significantly increased the capacity to develop engaging eLearning throughout Europe, and D) Qualified professionals with pre-existing knowledge and skills in Instructional Design. This led to a remarkable enhancement in the quality and effectiveness of digital education across the continent.
COVID-19 imposed emergent remote teaching and learning globally, leading to a steep learning curve for teachers, trainers, learners, and families, and exposing weaknesses in integrating digital technologies into education. The EC noted that most educators and learners had little online teaching experience, requiring a rethinking of education for a digital world (Digital Education Action Plan 2021-2027). With the urgent shift from emergency to strategic digital education, President von der Leyen emphasized the importance of high-quality, inclusive education and digital skills in the EU's digital and green transitions. CEDEFOP advocated for a lifelong learning approach to upskilling, involving skills assessment, tailored learning, and validation of acquired skills. Digital technology, used skillfully, supports high-quality, inclusive education, fostering collaborative and creative learning. The QUEST project, addressing the European need for harmonized online training, contributes through high-quality Instructional Design, defined as designing, developing, and delivering learning products, with designers acting as the 'architects' of learning experiences (Instructional Design Central).