Digital Transformation in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET): A Systematic Literature Review

Resumo

Digital transformation has become a strategic imperative for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) systems as they seek to remain relevant in rapidly evolving digital economies. However, existing research on this topic remains fragmented across technologies, regions, and institutional contexts. This study presents a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines to synthesize current evidence on digital transformation in TVET. A total of 51 peer-reviewed studies published between 2020 and 2025 were selected from five major academic databases and analyzed using a thematic synthesis approach. The review identifies the main digital technologies and information systems adopted in TVET, examines key challenges hindering transformation, explores critical enablers and success factors, and analyzes existing digital transformation frameworks. The findings reveal that while advanced digital technologies such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and data-driven systems show strong potential, transformation is predominantly constrained by limited instructor digital pedagogical competence, infrastructure gaps, and weak industry collaboration. Successful digital transformation is consistently associated with strategic governance, industry partnerships, and sustained capacity building. This study provides consolidated insights to support evidence-based decision-making and highlights directions for future research and policy development in TVET digital transformation.