Digital Literacy - The Basics Series
In this article:
Digital literacy is about having the skills to participate and prosper in a digital world.
Digitally literate is a term that refers to people who can confidently and safely navigate digital environments and tools in work, learning and life.
Advantages of being digitally literate.
We can help!
Call us on 1800 225 535 (1800 CALL DLL) or email us at hello@digitalliteracylicence.com to find out how you can increase your own digital literacy or that of people in your care.
What is digital literacy?
Simply put, digital literacy is about having the skills to work, learn, live and play in a digital society such as ours. According to ACARA, the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority, digital literacy is much more complex than it first appears. It ‘encompasses the knowledge and skills students need to: create, manage, communicate and investigate data, information and ideas; solve problems; and work collaboratively at school and in their lives beyond school.’ Also part of digital literacy, are critical skills to identify and select appropriate digital tools as well as employ secure practices in digital environments, adapt to new systems and adopt technology as a way of life.
What does it mean to be a digitally literate person?
Call to mind a picture of a digitally literate person. Who were you thinking of? Likely one of two extremes.
At one end, a tech engineer or savvy millennial who moves around any tech with blinding speed. At the other end, you might be picturing your grandma whose generational disadvantage means that she misses. The reality of a digitally literate person is somewhere in the middle. A person who can navigate digital information and tools commonly used in their place of work or learning and in their daily life would be considered digitally literate.
Advantages of being digitally literate
Today, digital tools permeate day-to-day living. Most people have access to smartphones, the Internet or at the very least, a shared computer at the library. Those with digital literacy skills interact with such tools in a safe and effective way. Those who do not are at risk of being scammed, having their identities stolen, being ill-considered for jobs or at the very least being unable to access information online. In short, those with poor or no digital literacy run the risk of being isolated by digital exclusion.
Digital literacy is achievable for everyone
At DLL, we take digital literacy seriously! Though the effects of digital exclusion pervade through every facet of a person’s life, being digitally literate is well-within reach. Contact one of our representatives at 1800 225 535 (1800 CALL DLL) or email us at hello@digitalliteracylicence.com.