learning objectives
- Identify basic elements of digital tools.
- Understand that digital tools should only be purchased when their purpose has been determined.
- Understand how to evaluate online resources to determine validity and safety.
digital literacy overview
According to Ribble (2015), digital literacy is the process of teaching and learning about technology and the use of technology. Users of digital tools need to have an understanding of how to use the tool for its desired outcome. Too often in education we buy the "next best thing" because we are sold on what it CAN do, or we buy because the school down the road has them (keeping up with the Jones'). Buying technology before having a purpose for it is a recipe for disaster. Think of it like going to the hardware store and being "hardware literate". It would be easy to shop and buy the tools that looked powerful or buy what someone told you that you should have. If you haven't thought about your need(s), you may spend too much on a power tool when you really only needed a hammer. Schools often violate this idea by buying and delivering technology to teachers without providing them with training with how to use it. Digital literacy prevents technology from being bought for the sake of its purchase. Keeping these ideas in mind can end up saving schools and institutions money by reducing the chance of making wasted purchases.
Connections to personal experience
Those who knew me years ago may have considered me a bit of an impulse buyer when it comes to gadgets. However, in a school setting where dollars are tight, more research and justification is necessary before purchasing. Becoming digitally literate in my personal life has enabled me to think about my needs first, then decide what I need. My current job has helped me realize that technology purchases must be made with many factors in mind. I must choose the best tool for the job, and not the one I like the most.
Connections to field/discipline
As an instructional designer and someone responsible for assessing needs, my digital literacy provides a great value to my employer. Being digitally literate enables me to consider the need for tools, as well as consideration for how instructors and students will use them. Talking to faculty and assessing needs is the first step. After a tool is selected, a plan for professional development for instructors and readily available support for students is a must. A consideration for student and instructor digital literacy (or lack thereof) is essential for developing training and support opportunities.
NPR Broadcasts
Closing the Digital Divide, Expanding Digital Literacy
June 29, 2011
Runtime: 8:14
While the usage of internet tools has increased dramatically among minorities, digital literacy is unchanged. Consider this quantity vs. quality. Usage has increased for consumption (entertainment and social purposes), but not in areas of creation and development or new content. This story discusses the differences and how race and economic demographics affect this difference.
http://www.npr.org/2011/06/29/137499299/closing-digital-divide-expanding-digital-literacy
June 29, 2011
Runtime: 8:14
While the usage of internet tools has increased dramatically among minorities, digital literacy is unchanged. Consider this quantity vs. quality. Usage has increased for consumption (entertainment and social purposes), but not in areas of creation and development or new content. This story discusses the differences and how race and economic demographics affect this difference.
http://www.npr.org/2011/06/29/137499299/closing-digital-divide-expanding-digital-literacy
Social Media: OMG! Do Parents Get It?
January 29, 2013
Runtime: 17:49
How do parents find ways to become digitally literate to communicate with their children? What should parents allow children to do online? This story provides guidance for parents on how to accommodate their child's quest for independence while understanding the digital world they live in.
http://www.npr.org/2013/01/29/170561393/social-media-omg-do-parents-get-it
January 29, 2013
Runtime: 17:49
How do parents find ways to become digitally literate to communicate with their children? What should parents allow children to do online? This story provides guidance for parents on how to accommodate their child's quest for independence while understanding the digital world they live in.
http://www.npr.org/2013/01/29/170561393/social-media-omg-do-parents-get-it
For the Tablet Generation, A Lesson In Digital Citizenship
November 1, 2013
Runtime: 6:02
Los Angeles School District's implementation of a 1-to-1 iPad program revealed inadequate planning for integration due to the student's ability to access the internet without restrictions. This "breach" has raised concerns elsewhere about whether or not schools and teachers are prepared for these initiatives. Digital literacy deficiencies have created misunderstanding and mistrust about how students use these tools. Teachers that educate students on proper use seem to be the best tool.
http://www.npr.org/sections/alltechconsidered/2013/11/01/242156138/for-the-tablet-generation-a-lesson-in-digital-citizenship
November 1, 2013
Runtime: 6:02
Los Angeles School District's implementation of a 1-to-1 iPad program revealed inadequate planning for integration due to the student's ability to access the internet without restrictions. This "breach" has raised concerns elsewhere about whether or not schools and teachers are prepared for these initiatives. Digital literacy deficiencies have created misunderstanding and mistrust about how students use these tools. Teachers that educate students on proper use seem to be the best tool.
http://www.npr.org/sections/alltechconsidered/2013/11/01/242156138/for-the-tablet-generation-a-lesson-in-digital-citizenship
Ribble, M. (2015). Digital citizenship in schools: Nine elements all students should know (3rd ed.). Eugene, OR: International Society of Technology in Education.
