| October Edition Issue 04/2026The Digital WaysDear reader,Welcome to the second edition of the renewed The Digital Ways Newsletter, powered by eucen, where we bring together the latest developments in digital education and digital transformation across higher and adult education in Europe.In this edition, we look at how visual pedagogy can enrich digital learning, how European cooperation is supporting innovation, and how AI is shaping the future of university lifelong learning. We also explore current European policy responses to AI adoption, disinformation and the growing importance of AI literacy and digital resilience.Finally, we bring you the latest from the eucen network, revisit the discussions from the 2025 eucen Autumn Seminar on AI, and highlight upcoming events and opportunities to continue the conversation.We invite you to explore this month’s selection of insights, updates, and opportunities.Innovation in Practice |
 Visual pedagogy: Rethinking the use of visual resources in digital learningVisual resources are increasingly embedded in digital education, but how do they influence learning, participation and inclusion?Research conducted through the European project VISUALITY explores how educators and learners use and experience visual approaches in higher and adult education.The Visual Pedagogy Research Report and Needs Assessment Summary examines current practices, opportunities and challenges, highlighting that effective visual pedagogy goes beyond incorporating images, videos or diagrams. The selection, organisation and explanation of visual materials, as well as learners’ active engagement with them, are essential to their educational value.  The European Education Area: Building a framework for digital education innovationHow can European cooperation support innovation in digital education?Through the European Education Area, the European Commission is working towards more accessible, inclusive and high-quality digital learning across Europe. The Digital Education Action Plan 2021–2027 provides a common framework, supporting the development of digital learning ecosystems and strengthening the digital competences of educators and learners.The European Digital Education Hub offers a space for policymakers, researchers, educators and other stakeholders to exchange knowledge, share practices and explore innovative approaches to digital education. Interested in learning more about European cooperation and innovation in digital education? Policy & Europe European AI Innovation Month: Advancing AI adoption across Europe The European AI Innovation Month (14 October–17 November 2026), led by the European Commission in partnership with the Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU, brings together policymakers, industry, the public sector and researchers to explore how AI is being developed and applied across European sectors. The initiative showcases innovation, practical applications and opportunities for AI adoption.Its concluding event, the Apply AI Summit, will take place on 17 November in Brussels and online, marking the first anniversary of the Apply AI Strategy. The Summit will highlight European AI success stories and discuss how AI can strengthen Europe’s competitiveness and public services.  Tackling disinformation: Building resilience in the digital information space Disinformation is an increasingly complex challenge for Europe’s digital information environment, affecting public debate, trust in institutions and democratic participation. Addressing it requires more than technological solutions: research, independent fact-checking and media literacy are essential to understanding and responding to misleading information.Several European initiatives contribute to this work. The European Digital Media Observatory (EDMO) connects researchers, fact-checkers and media literacy experts, while EUvsDisinfo analyses disinformation narratives and EU DisinfoLab investigates manipulation campaigns and their impact. The European Parliament also continues to develop policy responses to online disinformation and foreign information manipulation.  The European Democracy Shield: Strengthening democratic resilience against foreign interference In response to growing threats from foreign interference, disinformation and hybrid attacks, the European Parliament established its Special Committee on the European Democracy Shield in December 2024. Its task is to examine how the EU can better protect democratic institutions, electoral processes and public debate.In September 2026, the Parliament adopted the Committee’s recommendations, calling for stronger action against online electoral interference, AI-generated disinformation and coordinated manipulation campaigns. Proposals also include a European Centre for Democratic Resilience, stronger protection for independent media and greater investment in media literacy. The recommendations highlight the importance of digital resilience in safeguarding democratic participation.  Council of Europe: Placing AI literacy at the heart of education Understanding artificial intelligence requires more than knowing how to use digital tools. In September 2026, the Council of Europe adopted Recommendation CM/Rec(2026)12 on Artificial Intelligence Literacy, calling on its 46 member states to promote AI literacy across education and society. The recommendation introduces a framework encompassing the human, technological and practical dimensions of AI, emphasising critical thinking, human rights and individual autonomy.For universities and lifelong learning providers, this highlights the need for innovative teaching approaches, continuous professional development for educators and opportunities to develop AI competences through formal, non-formal and informal learning. It also underlines the role of higher education and research in understanding AI’s educational and societal implications and fostering responsible innovation. As AI transforms how people work and learn, ensuring that everyone can engage critically with these technologies becomes an essential part of lifelong learning. eucen Network News |
