Digital Literacy

Digital Literacy and Why it Matters Video

What is Digital Literacy?

• According to the American Library Association," Digital Literacy is the ability to use information and communication technologies to find, evaluate, create, and communicate information, requiring both cognitive and technical skills."

In Simpler Terms

• It is the process of teaching and learning about technology and the use of technology.

A Digitally Literate Person:

1. Variety of Skills

• In order to be digitally literate one needs to be able to find, understand, evaluate, create, and communicate digital information in a wide variety of formats.

2. Diversity in Technology

• The person is able to use a diverse amount of technology appropriately and effectively. They need to be able to retrieve information, interpret results, and is able to judge the quality of the given information.

3. Understanding

• They also needs to understand the relationship between technology, learning, and privacy, by managing the information.

4. Communication

• They are able to communicate and collaborate with peers using technology.

5. Ability to Share

• They are able to produce and share original content through the internet.

6. Knowledge

• Lastly, they have the ability to use the Internet and technology tools to achieve many academic, professional, and personal goals.

Infusing Digital Literacy in the Classroom

Digital Literacy is Important

• According to the NYC Department of Education,"Skillful use of a range of technology is essential for success after high school-as newly graduated young adults continue their education, enter the workforce, or juggle school and employment".

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Curriculum

• Infusing digitial literacy into the curriculum is about trying to engage students in learning. It is teaching them the changing nature of the subject.

Activities in the Classroom: English

• Distinguish a primary and secondary source, and assess the credibility.
• Teach students how to cite sources using different methods, such as, Microsoft Office and EasyBib
• Create a short film on assigned reading.

Activities in the Classroom: Math

• Teach students how to solve equations with different methods, such as, graphing calculator, Microsoft office, WolframAlpha.
• Use a SmartBoard TI Funcation to work along with the students.

Activities in the Classroom: Science

• Virtual Frog Dissection
• Logger Pro Physics Lab

Examples of Digital Literacy

Understanding How to Use:

• Web browsers
• Search Engines
• Email
• Text
• Wiki
• Blogs
• Photoshop
• Powerpoint
• Video editing Software

Non-Examples of Digital Literacy

• Having a computer lab in your school.
• Typing papers
• Using online media without any knowledge on how to judge the quality of the content.

Useful Tools

Microsoft.com/DigitalLiteracy

• The Microsoft Digitial Literacy curriculum has three levels: Basic, Standard, and Advanced.
• There are free courses that help develop essential skills, such as, Internet, Cloud Services, Computer Security, Digital Lifestyle, and several more.
• It is great for teachers and students.

Reminders

Technology

• It is nearly impossible to be completely up to date with the latest technology. It is constantly changing and the learning never ends.
• Teachers can learn from students.
• When in doubt, Google it.

Conclusion

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• In conclusion, being digitally literate means having the ability to create meaningful content using a variety of formats. Also, having the capability to work with others and communicate effectively while using technology.