These unscripted moments: Digital competence in the teaching of Russia's invasion of Ukraine

On February 24, 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine, and news spread rampantly in digital media. Simultaneously, researchers were conducting video observations of naturally occurring teaching in Norway. Using mixed methods, this study identified how English and social science teachers in two secondary schools addressed the invasion, across nine classes involving 195 students. Findings suggest that teachers prioritised teaching about the invasion regardless of their original plans, to cater for students’ questions. In these unscripted moments, teachers used their professional digital competence to address the invasion in real time and enable students to find and reflect critically on information about the invasion. • The study shows how teachers addressed Russia's invasion of Ukraine in real time. • Students seldom expressed fear, although teachers were responsive to their concerns. • Teachers and students used digital competence to stay informed about the invasion. • Teachers used their professional digital competence to reach subject-specific goals. • They prioritised the invasion in English and social science lessons despite plans.