Digital Literacy

Introduction

The American Library Association (ALA) defines digital literacy as “the ability to use information and communication technologies to find, evaluate, create, and communicate information, requiring both cognitive and technical skills.”

Uhhhh...what?

Okay, here it is broken down: Digital literacy is being able to read, write, communicate, and share ideas using technology. It's being able to read something and know that it is "legit" and not a rumor or lie. It's being able to write something of your own that makes sense so that others can understand you. It's being able to talk with others using technology without offending people or sounding like you've never used technology before.

Importance of Digital Literacy

"Students who are digitally literate know how to find and consume digital content. They know how to create, communicate, and share digital content. In addition, nearly every career requires digital communication at some point, so equipping [you] with the skills to effectively and responsibly find, evaluate, communicate, and share online content is key to [your future]" ("What is Digital Literacy?").

Watch the following 2-minute videos to understand what digital literacy is, why it's an important skill to have, and thinking before you share personal information and content online. For closed captioning, click on the "cc" button in the lower right-hand corner of the video.