Digital literacy encompasses the competencies necessary to navigate, evaluate, and effectively utilize digital technologies within contemporary society. As technology permeates virtually every aspect of modern life – from communication and education to employment and civic engagement – proficiency in digital literacy has become paramount.
Digital citizenship is about being a good online member of society. It means acting responsibly and ethically when using technology. This includes respecting others' rights and property online, following good manners in digital spaces, and understanding the impact of your online actions. Good digital citizens are aware of their online reputation and work to build a positive one. They also know how to stay safe online by protecting their personal information and treating others with kindness. By being a good digital citizen, you help create a friendly and safe online community.
This is the ability to explore and gather information independently online. This core component empowers individuals to obtain the knowledge they need for professional and educational purposes. Some skills include navigating search engines, databases, online libraries, and other digital tools and resources. Independent researchers can assess the accuracy, relevance, and potential bias of information to make informed and reliable decisions.
Media literacy goes beyond simply using digital tools. It's about understanding, analyzing, and creating different types of media like text, images, videos, and social media content. People who are media literate can spot fake news, understand what messages are trying to be sent, and think critically about what they see and hear online. They can also share their own ideas and join online conversations in a meaningful way. Being media literate helps people make smart choices about what they consume and encourages them to be active participants in the online world.
This is the foundation of digital literacy. This includes basic skills needed to use digital devices, software, and applications effectively. Some examples include file management, computer operations, using word processing software, creating presentations, using the internet, and managing spreadsheets.
Digital communication and collaboration skills go beyond just the above components. They're about sharing ideas, talking with others online, and working together using digital tools. It's like adding a social layer to digital literacy. People who are good at digital communication know how to talk and work with others online, following the rules and using tools like email and social media in the right way.
Information sourced from: What are the five skills of digital literacy? (2024, January 16). viasat.com. https://news.viasat.com/blog/corporate/what-are-the-five-skills-of-digital-literacy