FROM NATURAL ECOSYSTEMS TO DIGITAL EDUCATION ECOSYSTEMS: COMPARISON, CHALLENGES, AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF MATHEMATICS TEACHING SKILLS FOR PRE-SERVICE PRIMARY TEACHERS

This paper analyzes three types of ecosystems: (1) Natural ecosystems, (2) Educational ecosystems, and (3) Digital education ecosystems, comparing their structures, operational mechanisms, adaptability, and risks of “degradation.” Based on ecological theories and digital transformation policies, the study focuses on teaching Mathematics in elementary schools in Vietnam. In this context, Circular No. 02/2025/TT-BGDĐT establishes the digital competency framework for learners and serves as a legal foundation for setting digital competency standards for future elementary school teachers. Through a survey of Elementary Education students at Hanoi Pedagogical University 2, the study identifies opportunities and challenges in developing digital teaching skills for Mathematics. From these findings, the paper proposes six key skills (S1-S6) for pre-service teachers, along with implementation methods, a comparative framework aligned with Circular No. 02/2025/TT-BGDĐT, and long-term training solutions. The research results indicate significant application potential but require synchronized infrastructure, policies, and stakeholder collaboration to establish a sustainable, safe, and effective digital education ecosystem. Keywords: Active learning; attitude; motivation; self- directed learning; learning strategies.