Assessment of Digital Programing Skills based on the Competencies Model

There is a growing need to assess programming skills holistically using a competencies model. However, existing assessment tools lack a comprehensive framework mapping programming to wider digital competencies. The study explores the importance of digital skills by focusing initially on assessing the digital skills gap as case study of target students in Kosovo. The study aims to highlight the importance and the need for continuous learning and adaptation to bridge the digital skills gap of student and the potential IT industry employees in the future. The study also emphasizes the need of learning theories in the design of digital education interventions as a critical area that needs further exploration. The research methodology of the study combines quantitative and qualitative data, collected through surveys and interviews. The participants include individuals from various backgrounds, such as students, and high school pupils. The study is completed by the creation of an online assessment platform that aims to measure digital skill levels across DigComp competencies. The competencies model-based assessment of programming skills using an online platform is a novel approach. The empirical study provides new insights into the digital skills gap. The strategy should include the integration of digital skills into the assessment process, the development of unobtrusive assessment methods, and the effective utilization of learning theories in digital education. Future research should focus on these areas to bridge the digital skills gap and enhance the effectiveness of digital education. Analyses of the impacting factors has been provided and discussed.