Digital Education for Primary School Children: Opportunities, Challenges, and Implementation Gaps in the Global Age of Technology

This study aims to examine the implementation of digital education at SDN Cicurug Caringin and SDIT Nabawi, Sukabumi Regency, with a focus on opportunities, challenges, and gaps in the use of technology for learning at the elementary school level. Using a qualitative approach and a comparative case study design, this study explores the application of digital education in two different contexts, namely in rural areas (SDN Cicurug Caringin) and urban areas (SDIT Nabawi). Data were collected through in-depth interviews with four teachers, two principals, eight students, and four parents, as well as direct observation in both schools. The analysis techniques used are data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing, with Miles and Huberman’s interactive analysis procedures. The results of the study show that SDN Cicurug Caringin faces significant infrastructure constraints, such as a student-computer ratio of 1:15, limited internet connection, and low digital literacy of parents due to their simple socio-economic background. On the other hand, SDIT Nabawi has succeeded in utilizing digital platforms such as Let’s Read to increase students’ interest in reading, although it is limited by teaching time and lack of TPACK (Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge) training for teachers. The main gaps found between the two schools are unequal access to technology, limited teacher capacity to integrate technology, and low parental support in assisting children in digital learning. This study provides empirical evidence that the success of digital education is highly dependent on adequate infrastructure, TPACK-based training for teachers, and parental involvement in digital literacy. The recommendations included infrastructure improvements, TPACK training for teachers, and the implementation of digital literacy workshops for parents to reduce disparities and improve learning outcomes.