Digital Literacy and Foundations  

1. 7 Competencies of Digital Literacy

Definition: Skills to find, evaluate, create, communicate, collaborate, stay safe, and act ethically online. Computer, info, media, communication, visual, technology, and critical literacy.

Source: University of Illinois Library (.edu)

2. Search Query

Definition: Words typed into a search engine to look up information.

Source: Harvard University Library (.edu)

3. Natural Language Query

Definition: A search written like a normal question or sentence.

Source: Stanford University Libraries (.edu)

4. Spider (Web)

Definition: A program search engines use to scan and collect web pages.

Source: UC Berkeley Library (.edu)

5. Digital Footprint

Definition: The trail of data you leave behind from online activity.

Source: University of Michigan Library (.edu)

6. 5 Basic Computer Components

Definition: Input, output, CPU, memory, processing, and storage.

Source: MIT OpenCourseWare (.edu)

7. File

Definition: A digital document that stores data on a computer.

Source: Purdue University IT (.edu)

8. File Extension

Definition: Letters at the end of a file name that show its type (ex: .pdf).

Source: University of Washington IT (.edu)

9. Zip File

Definition: A compressed file that holds one or more files.

Source: University of Texas IT (.edu)

10. SaaS

Definition: Software used online instead of installed on a device.

Source: Carnegie Mellon University (.edu)

11. Digital Bubble

Definition: When algorithms limit what content you see online.

Source: University of Washington (.edu)

12. Generative AI

Definition: AI that creates new content like text or images.

Source: MIT AI Lab (.edu)

13. AI Prompt

Definition: Instructions given to AI to guide its response.

Source: Stanford HAI (.edu)

14. Internet vs. WWW

Definition: The internet is the network; the WWW is the websites on it.

Source: University of Maryland CS (.edu)

15. Browser

Definition: Software used to access websites.

Source: University of Wisconsin IT (.edu)

16. URL

Definition: The web address of an online resource.

Source: Yale University Library (.edu)

This unit helped me realize that digital literacy is more than just knowing how to use technology—it’s about how and why we use it. I learned how to evaluate information instead of just accepting what I see online. Exploring my digital footprint stood out the most because it made me more aware that everything I post, search, or interact with leaves a trace. It made me think more carefully about my online choices and how they shape my digital identity over time.

Introduction to Generative AI

This unit changed how I see AI. I learned that generative AI isn’t just about shortcuts—it’s a tool that works best when guided by human thinking. Understanding how AI tools like copilots generate responses helped me see both their strengths and limitations. I also learned the importance of using AI ethically and responsibly, especially in academic and professional settings.

All About Computers

This unit helped me finally understand what’s happening inside a computer instead of just using one every day without thinking about it. Learning about hardware, software, and networking made everything feel less intimidating. I now understand how the parts of a computer work together and why things like RAM, storage, and processors actually matter in real life.

All About File Management

This unit made my digital life more organized. I learned how files and folders work, how to share files properly, and why naming and organizing documents saves time and stress. Creating digital notes showed me how being organized digitally can improve productivity and make studying easier.

All About the Internet (and the WWW)

This unit helped me understand how the internet really works behind the scenes. I learned the difference between the internet and the web, how cloud services function, and how browsers play a role in accessing information. Setting up my ePortfolio was meaningful because it gave me a space to present my work professionally and intentionally.

Updating my Unit 1 notes helped me connect everything I learned into one place. It showed me how much information I’ve already gained and how digital note-taking can help me reflect, review, and build knowledge over time.

Overall, this unit helped me feel more confident, aware, and intentional with technology. I now understand that being digitally literate isn’t just useful for school—it’s a life skill I’ll continue to build on.