This week’s lesson explored how schools can foster a culture of lifelong learning in digital literacy that extends beyond the classroom. Dustin, in his presentation, describes digital literacy in relation to the Ministry of Education Saskatchewan’s document on digital citizenship, which includes one’s proficiency in using technologies for skills like searching for information, evaluating and organizing online information, and collaborating within digital networks. In relation to this definition, Dr Bonnie discussed how platforms like blogs and Twitter were instrumental in fostering academic networks between 2007 and 2014. She also emphasized the importance of informal sharing of research on social media as a key aspect of digital scholarship. Andrea indicated in her video that students need a strong foundation in digital literacy to thrive in today’s digital age. Canada’s Centre for Digital and Media Literacy interprets this to include empowering youth to participate in digital media in a wise, safe, and ethical manner (Media Smarts, 2010) while addressing issues of privacy, safety, and ethical technology use. Hence, fostering a comprehensive understanding of digital literacy is essential for students to succeed in a changing world of work.
Image copied from ttro.com
Digital literacy is essential for lifelong learning as it enables individuals to access a wealth of online courses, resources, and tools. As Andrea indicated, “promoting lifelong learning requires creating a culture where digital learning extends beyond the classroom. For instance, involving students in community-based projects allows them to practice their skills while understanding the social impact and responsibility that come with digital knowledge. Interdisciplinary projects foster critical and creative thinking, preparing students for adaptable careers and a lifetime of learning in our fast-changing world.” Reflecting on the reading resources and class discussions, I think one way of fostering a culture of digital literacy as lifelong learning would be to create opportunities for students to engage in experiences that motivate them to explore and experiment with topics and concepts taught using technology. I think this can also be related to what Wes Fryer shared regarding how he engages students in various concepts, topics, and projects that involve creating artefacts that help develop their media and digital literacy skills.
An illustration of the importance of digital literacy for lifelong learning. Image copied from www.student-circuit.com
However, I believe that creating such opportunities could also require that the school has the needed infrastructure to engage students in such digital activities. In addition, the teacher would also have to be equipped with the knowledge, skills, pedagogical competence and confidence needed to foster such a culture in students.
I remembered Haneefat mentioning in one of her posts how she tries to carry out some of what she has learned in the class with her daughter. Reflecting on that specific post reminded me of how schools often encourage parental involvement in students learning back in my days as a school student. And I remember my mom always doing those activities shared by my teachers with me at home as a form of continuous learning. I think this can also work with the issue of digital literacy as lifelong learning. Probably schools need to start encouraging parents to participate in digital literacy programs or events that can enhance their children’s learning experience and promote a culture of continuous learning at home.
I resonate with your statement “…fostering a culture of digital literacy as lifelong learning would be to create opportunities for students to engage in experiences that motivate them to explore and experiment with topics and concepts taught using technology.”
I think engagement is a big part of keeping students interested in learning. Helping students find their niche or allowing them to explore their interests can motivate them. As teachers, I think we need to impart the importance of staying active as learners, even when we move into our chosen careers.
Great post Ayo! Wes Fryer’s idea of using hands-on projects makes digital learning practical and engaging. I learn better through practice as well. But digital literacy can’t be handled by educators alone, even if they lay the foundation. Parents and the community are key for learning outside the classroom. At home, parents can model healthy tech habits and guide kids through the online world. When schools, parents, and the community collaborate, they create a supportive environment for building real digital skills that last a lifetime. It truly takes a village to raise digitally savvy kids.
I enjoyed reading your reflection thinking back to your mom doing those activities with you at home. I just posted a similar though on my own blog for this week, where we as teachers often send home reading and writing activities for students, so why can’t we also provide activities or support for families at home around digital literacy skills? I know at my school personally, we have staff who refuse to use technology over the assumption that students are using it at home. However, I feel like there has been changes with this as well and not as many of my students use technology at home, or when they do, its potentially unsupervised and not for educational purposes. I think providing activities for families to do could not only help build those digital literacy skills, but help bring the family together over a fun project!
Great post! I love how you emphasize that digital literacy is more than just a classroom skill—it’s about preparing students for the real world. Dr. Bonnie’s point about blogs and Twitter being key for academic networking is a great reminder of how tech evolves, and it’s vital to teach adaptability. Do you believe there is a way to get back to how Twitter/X was before Elon Musk ruined it?
The need for proper infrastructure and teacher training couldn’t be a more accurate note. Without it, schools don’t have the capacity to create a digital culture. I also think your idea of involving parents is brilliant. Workshops or family tech projects could make learning a shared experience and keep it going at home.
“However, I believe that creating such opportunities could also require that the school has the needed infrastructure to engage students in such digital activities. In addition, the teacher would also have to be equipped with the knowledge, skills, pedagogical competence and confidence needed to foster such a culture in students.”
Great point! What do we do for schools who do not have the needed infrastructure or a trained teacher? I think that the answer is related to your topic of parent engagement.
You suggest sharing our learning with parents, but I think this relationship could be reciprocal! I guarantee there are parents with extensive knowledge in this field that could help us out as well by sharing with the class or supporting a parent education night!