Evolution of higher education teachers' digital competence: Critical incidents derived from life stories

Due to the need to improve teachers' digital competence in higher education, it is important to understand this competence as a dynamic and qualitative process. In this article, we share research findings about the evolution of teachers' digital competence throughout the professional career of professors from both Spain and Mexico. From a qualitative perspective, the narrative-biographical method was used to build a selection of case studies based on professional life stories. The study identified critical incidents for the acquisition and development of this competence, which fit into four groups: previous experiences of information and communications technology (ICT) use, selection and creation of teaching materials, first steps in digital resources for learning and teaching, and development of projects and initiatives with ICT. In addition, transversal aspects that have influenced the development of this competence were identified: the reflections of the academic staff, type of changes in the use of ICT, aids and difficulties experienced. Finally, we propose a list of categories and indicators based on the findings in order to understand teachers' digital competence as an evolution focused on their professional development. This contribution could represent a complementary perspective for diagnostic projects and teacher training.