Digital Literacy

‘Digital literacy is now as essential as numeracy and literacy’ (CBI/Pearson).

There is often some confusion around the meaning of the term 'digital literacy'.  Some people think it refers to coding skills whilst others think it means the ability to communicate via digital means.  It actually has a much broader reach.

Digital literacy is the ability to use information and communication technologies to find, evaluate, create, and communicate information, as well as knowing the limitations of these technologies and understanding the potential dangers associated with them and how to take necessary precautions.  It requires both cognitive and technical skills.

Being digitally literate means understanding how to use web browsers, search engines, email, blogs, create podcasts, use social media, Photoshop, video creation/editing software etc.  I.e. ways to find information online and communicate it effectively.  But it also means being aware of things like Internet safety e.g. creating strong passwords and checking privacy settings, and the consequences of sharing certain things online and recognising and dealing with cyber-bullying.  Digital literacy also extends to evaluating online content for accuracy and trustworthiness of information. 

Most employers would expect 'digital natives' i.e. Millennials and Gen Z to be digitally literate, but this is not always the case.  If you are not confident with any of these aspects it is a good idea to improve your digital literacy.

Library Services offer training in digital skills including online safety and creating a positive social media presence.

LinkedIn Learning has a course on Internet Safety. Links to an external site.

This LinkedIn Learning course about Digital Citizenship covers creating a positive digital footprint, digital etiquette, online rights and responsibilities and digital security. Links to an external site.

This Future Learn course from The Open University on Cyber Security will teach you to recognise online security threats and steps you can take to minimise risk. Links to an external site.

This Future Learn course provided by Accenture on Digital Skills for Work and Life will explore how digital is changing the world of work and the opportunities and challenges this brings. Links to an external site.

 

Please note: These courses have been approved by LinkedIn Learning and Future Learn.  They are not University of Birmingham courses and have not been reviewed by Careers Network.


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