EDUCATION AS A KEY FACTOR IN THE FORMATION OF THE DIGITAL ECONOMY

Digitalization has an increasingly significant impact on education and science, transforming traditional models of their functioning. It covers not only the introduction of information and communication technologies, but also changes in the substantive, organizational and ethical aspects of educational and scientific activities. The article discusses the key areas of digital transformation: the development of distance learning, digital educational resources, open online courses, electronic libraries, scientific platforms and databases. Particular attention is paid to the problems of digital inequality, infrastructure provision, digital literacy, as well as legal and ethical issues in the context of the active use of algorithms and automated systems. The risks associated with a possible decrease in the quality of content, loss of academic autonomy and deformation of educational goals are analyzed. At the same time, the potential of digitalization in expanding access to knowledge, increasing the efficiency of scientific research, developing interdisciplinary and international cooperation is emphasized. Digital transformation requires a systematic approach and coordination of efforts of the state, educational organizations, research centers and the IT industry. In conclusion, promising areas of research aimed at creating a sustainable, inclusive and scientifically sound digital environment are identified.