Future of Global Citizenship Education in a Digitally Divided World

Published Paper PDF: View PDF

Karishma Reddy

Independent Researcher

Telangana, India

Abstract
Global citizenship education (GCE) seeks to cultivate learners’ capacities to understand and act upon complex, transnational challenges by fostering critical awareness, intercultural empathy, and a sense of shared responsibility. In an era marked by a deepening digital divide—where disparities in access to devices, connectivity, and digital literacies bifurcate learners into digitally empowered and digitally marginalized groups—GCE faces both new imperatives and formidable obstacles. This study examines how digital inequities shape the enactment and outcomes of GCE initiatives across diverse educational contexts. Drawing on a mixed‑methods survey of 250 educators and learners spanning urban, peri‑urban, and rural regions in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, it explores four interrelated dimensions: first‑order digital access (device and connectivity availability), second‑order digital literacies (skills and usage), pedagogical adaptations for low‑connectivity settings, and stakeholders’ visions for equitable GCE futures. Findings reveal stark contrasts in resource distribution—with only 34% of rural participants reporting reliable internet and device access compared to over 80% of urban peers—yet also illustrate remarkable local innovations, such as offline digital kits, community tech hubs, and asynchronous cross‑border collaborations. Educators emphasize the need for scaffolded digital skill‑building, context‑sensitive curricula, and multi‑sector partnerships to bridge gaps. The study concludes with a set of policy and practice recommendations: universal broadband and device provision, teacher professional development in digital‑pedagogical integration, co‑creation of open educational resources tailored to low‑bandwidth environments, and sustained partnerships among schools, NGOs, and technology providers.

Keywords
Global Citizenship Education, Digital Divide, Digital Literacy, Blended Learning, Educational Equity

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