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Abstract

This working paper presents findings from a literature review on the impact of digital tools on student learning and motivation in education. Overall, digital tools can enhance engagement and personalise learning, but their effectiveness is not guaranteed and depends on strategic implementation. Teachers play a central role here, whilst the review also identifies risks such as digital distraction, equity issues and cyberbullying that must be thoughtfully addressed for effective and safe digital learning environments.

This working paper was prepared as part of the Resourcing school education: Policies for the digital transformation of education and future-readiness of teachers project, which is included in the 2025-26 Programme of Work of the OECD's Education Policy Committee. It was commissioned by the Irish Department of Education and Youth to the OECD to investigate the impact of digital tools on education. It was developed by the University of Stavanger, under the guidance of the OECD Secretariat.

Table of contents

Abstract 3

Acknowledgements 4

Executive summary 7

1 Introduction 9

How to read this document 10

2 Benefits and challenges of the use of digital tools in primary and secondary education 11

Learning across subjects and grades 11

The potential of the use of different types of digital tools to support student learning and motivation 16

Challenges related to digitalisation of primary and secondary education 17

3 Realising the benefits of digital tools in education 20

Planning and conducting teaching 20

Students' and teachers' digital literacy and competence 24

Cognitive processes 28

4 Cyberbullying 32

Prevalence of cyberbullying 33

Topics related to cyberbullying 34

Interventions to stop or prevent cyberbullying 37

Policy implications to prevent and stop cyberbullying 39

5 Conclusion 40

References 41

FIGURES

Figure 4.1. Influences on bystanders' behaviours 36

TABLES

Table 2.1. School subjects and digital technologies: Tools used and key outcomes 12

Table 2.2. Key benefits of different types of digital tools to support student learning and motivation 16

Table 2.3. Identified challenges related to different digital tools 18

Table 4.1. Key terms in cyberbullying 32

BOXES

Box 3.1. Summary of key studies 21

Box 3.2. Insights from a study on highly digitised schools in Norway 31

Executive summary

This working paper provides a synthesis of research on the integration of digital tools in primary...

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