Digital Competency Self-assessment of Computer Science Teachers in Bulgarian Secondary Schools

This article presents a study on the self-assessment of digital competencies among computer science and IT teachers in Bulgarian secondary education. The study aligns with the European Qualifications Framework (EQF), the Digital Competence Framework for Citizens (DigComp 2.2) and the Digital Competence Framework for Educators (DigCompEdu). The latter framework has been analyzed and adapted specifically for teachers of Computer Science (CS) and Software Engineering (SE) in secondary schools. A total of 127 teachers specializing in high-level programming instruction participated in the study, with a focus on those teaching at mathematicsfocused high schools and vocational schools specializing in CS. The relevance of this study is underscored by the recent growth in educational programs aimed at professions related to CS, SE, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) for which national educational standards have been established. The study incorporates an analysis of successful international practices in CS and SE education at the secondary level to inform the development of specific research components. Based on the findings, the article outlines challenges related to teacher qualifications and emphasizes the need for continuous updating of their specialized digital competencies. The survey was distributed among programming teachers, suggesting that participants represent those with the highest levels of digital literacy and instructional preparedness in this field.