Competenza mediale e digitale. Analisi e riflessioni su un costrutto complesso

The search for the knowledge needed to make fruitful use of computer technologies and media languages has led to the development of the theoretical construct of "media and digital competence", which has been differently defined and applied by scholars and practitioners alike. Trying to shed some light on the various ways in which the construct has been elaborated, this article first identifies its roots within six traditions (library science, information science, psychology, economics, education, and sociology). It then focuses on two main versions of the concept – media competence and digital competence – and highlights both their similarities and differences, also referring to two significant recent models found in literature. Finally, on the basis of the previous analysis, the article identifies some theoretical core ideas that lend themselves as useful starting points for pedagogical reflection and contributions.