Prior to enrolling in this course, I never heard about the term digital literacy. This is a term that is referred to as utilizing technology in a safe environment in order to solve problems. In simpler terminology, digital literacy means using technology or the internet world safely and in a correct manner in order to solve problems or issues. Some examples of digital literacy consist of discovering files in multiple software applications, successfully navigating online research alongside having the ability to carefully examine the sources that are being used for research, and being able to properly use a keyboard. Taking note of the concept, digital literacy, is a critical one to firmly grasp as it enables individuals to process and monitor information, run things smoothly, and more.
How to Teach Digital Literacy:
There are numerous ways to go about teaching digital literacy. One such method is underlining the significance of critical thinking. In simpler terminology, this refers to giving students the ability to grow by educating them with regards to utilizing the online world and technology with a well-mannered approach. For example during this week’s lecture, we took a glimpse about various individuals who utilized social media in negative ways. Some of these negative aspects included the individuals using social media as a tool for cyberbullying, racism, and negative comments overall. Not only were these examples listed, but more importantly, we were educated about the harmful effects of posting such negative comments online. Such aftermaths consisted of an individual losing their job as a result of a negative comment, and so and so forth. Therefore, teaching students about the harmful effects of social media paves the way for the youth to think critically about life decisions.
Another crucial component consists of educating the youth with regards to controlling their online identity. Nowadays, there are numerous influencers and celebrities across the globe who all have large following bases and audiences across all of their social media platforms. When scrolling through these influencers’ social media accounts, one may genuinely believe that whatever celebrity he/she follows, that that celebrity genuinely portrays the same personality traits both on and off camera. Although some celebrities do represent a positive personality both outside and during their social media life, others influencers may use it as a gimmick. In a more formal tone, there is a trend of misconceptions occurring on multiple social media platforms. This is a great lesson to educate students about. Not only will they youth again, make beneficial life decisions, but more importantly, individuals will be more careful and responsive about what to hear and not to hear online.
How might you incorporate the goals of the NCTE framework?
One of the NCTE framework goals that I plan on incorporating consist of the following: participate effectively and critically in a networked world. I strongly uphold that apart from maintaining a sense of professionalism, it is essential for community members to develop a networked world. By working alongside, individuals will not only have the opportunity to further aggravate their communication and socialization skills, but more importantly, people will be more willing and open with regards to sharing and opening ideas amongst each other.
A second NCTE framework goal I strive to incorporate includes, promoting culturally sustaining communication and recognizing the bias and privilege present in their interactions. This goal is quite synonymous to the above-mentioned one. I believe that it is highly significant to promote culturally sustaining communication as it cultivates an inclusive environment for all. It does so because by allowing everyone’s voices to be heard, individuals’ opinions and ideas will gradually be prevented from having their thoughts and opinions brushed under the carpet.
References
National Council of Teachers of English. (2019, November 7). Definition of Literacy in Digital Age. Retrieved June 10, 2025, from https://ncte.org/statement/nctes-definition-literacy-digital-age/.
Ontario. (n.d.). Digital Literacy. Retrieved June 10, 2025, from,
https://www.dcp.edu.gov.on.ca/en/program-planning/transferable-skills/digital-literacy.
Smith, S. (2024, June 28). The Importance of Digital Literacy. DeVry University. Retrieved June 10, 2025, from https://www.devry.edu/blog/digital-literacy.html#:~:text=Your%20level%20of%20digital%20literacy,as%20smoothly%20as%20they%20should.
Team, L. (2023, April 20). 30 Examples of Digital Literacy in 2023. Learning.Com. Retrieved June 10, 2025, from https://www.learning.com/blog/30-examples-of-digital-literacy-in-2023/#:~:text=Find%20and%20open%20files%20in,computer%2C%20tablet%2C%20and%20smartphone.