Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) play a critical role in the European economy, accounting for the majority of businesses and employment opportunities. However, with rapidly changing technology and global competition, it is becoming increasingly important for SMEs to stay competitive. This paper explores the role of digital learning and work-based learning (WBL) in helping European SMEs remain competitive in the 21st century. Digital learning and work-based learning are two of the most innovative and influential approaches to education and training in the 21st century. Both approaches leverage technology and real-world experience to help students and workers acquire the skills they need to succeed in their careers. The paper argues that by leveraging technology and real-world experience, SMEs can upskill their employees and stay ahead of the curve. The paper concludes that a combination of digital learning and work-based learning has the potential to transform the way SMEs approach employee development, allowing them to remain competitive in a rapidly changing business landscape.

This paper utilizes a mixed-methods approach, incorporating both a literature review and the results of a survey, to explore the role of digital learning and work-based learning.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3846/bm.2023.1001