Path towards embedding industry 4.0 paradigm – Digital competence overview in HEI: The Alto Minho Region case study

Abstract

The increased adoption of IoT and analytical devices, telecommunication systems, smart sensors, and diverse information systems have brought significant impacts to Industry 4.0. To respond to this rapid technological evolvement is essential to ensure a proper articulation of HEI (Higher Education Institutions) with industry, to better prepare graduates with the appropriate competencies and technological capabilities within the digital transition of the industry. This paper aims to present a research project developed in digital transformation amongst HEI students, in the Alto-Minho region disclosing the trigger points to increase the digital adoption and embedding of Industry 4.0 paradigm. The obtained results enabled to conclude an apparent low level of digital literacy, a lack of vision and awareness about the technology potentialities throughout industry activities, besides its use almost restricted to leisure and as study support, as well as lack on cybersecurity domain-specific competencies.