Vodafone Foundation carried our research into European students’ perceptions, usage, and concerns regarding artificial intelligence (AI) in education, based on a comprehensive cross-country survey of students between 12 and 17 years old.

The findings highlight diverse regional attitudes, the role of AI in academic settings, and the growing demand for skills and tools that integrate AI into learning environments. Additionally, the report examines the potential risk of a widening digital divide caused by disparities in students’ starting conditions, with 74% believing that AI would play a significant role in their professional lives, but less than half feeling adequately prepared by their schools to engage with the new technology.

Fewer than 10% of European students possess the ability to accurately differentiate facts from opinions. The growing digital learning gap puts us at risk of an online 'infodemic', as students from underprivileged backgrounds lag in the development of digital literacy skills.

A survey encompassing teachers from 11 European countries indicates that 20% of them have minimal or no experience in teaching with technology. Meanwhile, 75% feel that the government holds unrealistic expectations regarding digital teaching and are in favour of implementing European education standards.

Vodafone Germany Foundation released a survey focusing on the digital education of young individuals in Germany. It revealed that approximately 70% of new workforce entrants do not feel adequately prepared for the digital work environment. Only 54% of the surveyed students reported having computer science as a standard subject in their curriculum. However, a notable 79% of the youth recognize the importance of digital skills for their future.

A survey of parents across 10 European countries reveals a significant 73% support for the integration of digital literacy as a primary learning objective in schools, advocating for European standards in digital skills education.

Vodafone Foundation in Spain, in alliance with the University of Salamanca, carried out a study of the impact of 'DigiCraft in your school' focused on educational centers that have implemented the programme for three years, evaluating how the programme has impacted on students, teacher and schools.

The results of the report show that 100% of the students considered that they have improved their digital knowledge and skills, over 75% believed that they have learned to work in a team and to respect their colleagues more, stating that they have helped each other and feel more united, and 95% of teachers stated that teaching DigiCraft made them feel more motivated about their teaching activities.