The UX for Teachers project aimed to strengthen the role of secondary school teachers, trainers, and educators in designing student-centered digital environments, activities, and materials, exploiting the potential of UX Design to improve engagement and effectiveness of distance learning in schools. The main concrete objective was to enhance teachers’ competences in assessing, designing, and implementing effective digital environments/materials by applying UX design concepts.
The rapid rise of digital tech has disrupted education, leaving many teachers unprepared for distance learning. UNESCO notes insufficient digital skills in 16% of Italian, 15% of Spanish, and 14% of Bulgarian teachers. Only about half of 15-year-olds in OECD countries had access to effective online platforms during the pandemic. Virtual schooling can harm students' outcomes, leading to learning losses and increased dropout rates. Eurostat data shows 10.2% of EU 18-24-year-olds lack further education, with Spain (17%), Bulgaria (13%), and Italy (12%) most affected. The design of technological tools and digital pedagogy directly influences learning inclusion. Effective online environments should foster collaboration and engagement for inclusivity, personalization, and intelligence. Student-centered teaching empowers active knowledge construction and autonomy, with teachers pivotal in its implementation for distance learning.