By implementing the DARWIN project, we wanted to improve the digital skills and online safety of students, teachers and parents. The main objective was to reduce the percentage of students aged 13-14 with low digital skills, in line with the European Commission's Digital Education Plan. We wanted students to acquire digital citizenship skills and conscious use of ICT, reducing cases of cyberbullying. We also aimed to raise awareness among decision-makers and stakeholders about the importance of online safety and digital rights. Furthermore, we intended to improve the digital skills of teachers and parents, promoting educational practices for the responsible use of technologies. Through blended training for parents and an online platform for student peer education, we have developed tools for creative coding learning. In summary, the project created a safer and more aware educational environment, promoting a culture of digital safety and responsibility.
We applied for the DARWIN project to respond to the critical issues that emerged during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, regarding digital skills and online safety. Preliminary analysis with Italian and Lithuanian partner schools and parent representatives revealed serious gaps in the digital skills of students, teachers and parents. Many students showed limited skills in computational thinking and critical use of social media, while teachers and parents were often not ready to handle digital challenges. Furthermore, parents' lack of awareness of online risks has led to an early and distorted use of technological devices by children. With DARWIN, we addressed these needs through a vertical curriculum from infancy to lower secondary school, focused on media literacy and countering disinformation. We have improved the digital skills of teachers and parents, promoting an informed use of technologies. International collaboration has facilitated the exchange of experiences and innovative methodologies, strengthening the capacity of educational communities to address digital challenges effectively and safely.