KEY ASPECTS OF DEVELOPMENT OF DIGITAL COMPETENCIES OF THE POPULATION

The article analyzes the main factors influencing the digital competence formation of the Ukrainian population, which involves the acquisition of knowledge, abilities, character, and behavior that are compulsory for a person in order to use information and communication and digital technologies to achieve goals whether in personal or professional life. In the environment of forced isolation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the principle of continuing education («lifelong learning») receives new characteristics in the light of new realities, in which access to information, continuous learning and revising of knowledge become driving force in the formation of a new model of education. The article summarizes the experience of European countries in implementing the basic principles of digital literacy and providing citizens with opportunities to master the skills of working with information and communication technologies, communication and cooperation in the digital space, digital content, digital security and more. Based on the analysis of the urbanization impact on the access of the population to high-quality Internet, it was found that the urban population has a higher level of digital knowledge and skills compared to the population living in rural areas. A system of digital competencies for citizens «DigComp 2.1» is proposed to be integrated and used in Ukraine as a tool for the implementation of strategic priorities for the formation of digital literacy of the population, which is already implemented in the European Union. Overall, the acquisition and development of digital competencies in the XXI century is mandatory in all spheres of the national economy and in everyday life of the population. In this context, it is necessary to create infrastructure and institutions that will deal with the implementation of innovative solutions and digital literacy training of all segments of the population throughout life.