The expanding role of digital technologies and the growing presence of artificial intelligence in education have intensified the need to prepare future teachers with comprehensive digital competence that extends beyond basic technical skills. This study evaluates the digital competence of pre-service teachers in Mongolia using a DigCompEdu-informed framework. A quantitative survey was conducted with 56 final-year primary teacher education students, of whom 94.6% were female and 5.4% male, employing a structured instrument consisting of six competence areas and 32 items. The findings indicate that professional engagement through digital technologies was the strongest competence area, while lower levels were observed in learner digital competence, the pedagogical use of digital technologies in teaching and learning, and digital resource development. In terms of self-perceived competence levels, 44.6% of respondents identified themselves as "explorers" who attempt to utilize digital technologies in their professional practice, while 33.9% reported being “newcomers” with a basic awareness of how digital tools can support their professional development. Only 10.7% identified as "integrators" or "experts" who regularly and critically apply digital technologies in teaching practice. Overall, the results suggest that the digital competence of graduating pre-service teachers remains relatively underdeveloped, particularly in areas associated with pedagogical decision-making, ethical awareness, and readiness for AI-supported learning environments. The study highlights the need for more systematic, practice-oriented, and pedagogically grounded digital competence development within initial teacher education programmes to prepare future teachers for inclusive, responsible, and technology-enhanced education.

Authors:
Namjildagva Raash, Mongolian National University of Education, Mongolia
Myagmarsuren Orosoo, Mongolian National University of Education, Mongolia
Tumentsetseg Baljinnyam, Mongolian National University of Education, Mongolia
Munkhtsetseg Narantsetseg, Mongolian National University of Education, Mongolia

About the Presenter(s)
Myagmarsuren Orosoo, Associate Professor at the Mongolian National University of Education. Research interests include applied linguistics, AI-enhanced language education, and higher-education policy. Current project examines AI-supported language in

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/myagmarsuren-orosoo-7410862bb/

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