Digital Transformation in the Youth Sector: Mapping and Gapping of Existing Resources

The report contributes to the discussion around digital transformation in the youth field and makes it more accessible by providing trainers, youth workers and other multipliers with an accessible and easy-to-read summary of existing tools, methodologies, training resources, good practice examples, studies and many more. The analysis also helped to identify the gaps in the resources which might translate into training and information needs in the youth sector. The outcomes of this analysis aim to inform the continuous development of the digital transformation topic in the SALTO Participation and Information Resource Centre’s Participation Resource Pool.

In 2021, SALTO Participation and Information Resource Centre (SALTO PI) began working on the topic of digital transformation in order to co-create a more unified understanding of this topic in the European youth field. The mapping and gapping of resources and practices connected to digital transformation was a key part of this process. Analysis of its current state is crucial in formulating the understanding on how to move forward with digital transformation related work in a youth sector-centred way. Digital transformation is a complex and continually-changing process that affects nearly all areas of the youth field. Digital transformation is listed as one of the horizontal priorities in the EU Youth Programmes (Erasmus + and European Solidarity Corps) in the 2021-2027 programme period and is also one of the new priorities at the EU level. The European Commission’s top priority, ‘A Europe fit for the digital age’, emphasises the importance of embracing digital transformation. To achieve this, the European Commission highlights the need for investing in businesses, research and innovation, reforming data protection, empowering people with the skills necessary for a new generation of technologies and drafting appropriate rules.

This Report should not be regarded as a scientific study. The digital transformation process is continually evolving – as are its methods, projects and tools. The data was collected over a period of 4 months in 2021 through desk-based research, a survey and a focus group. While these analyses provide some insights into digital transformation, it is important to note that they are not representative of the entire European youth sector. The intention is to provide an initial overview of the digital transformation landscape and to use it as a ‘conversation starter’ in order to examine and advocate for more support in the sector.