Digital Literacy and Capacity

What is digital literacy and capacity?

A person is said to possess digital literacy and capacity when they have the necessary skills needed to live, learn and work in society, where access to information and communication is done using digital technologies like the internet, social media platforms, and mobile devices.  When a person is digitally literate, they can communicate effectively and use the technological tools to access, manipulate and ethically create information.

The Digital Strategy.

Before implementing the digital strategy, it is vital to know the attitude and competency of the stakeholders within the institution, as they are the ones who will be utilizing the technology daily.  

Components of a Digital Strategy 

I took the initiative to conduct a sample survey of all stakeholders involved.  Most participants indicate that they were confident using and utilizing technology.

Click here to view the results of the Teacher Survey

Click here to view the results of the Parent/Guardian Survey

Click here to view the results of the Students Survey

A series of developmental workshops will be aimed at those teachers and students who are not confident.  These workshops can assist those persons who need to improve their skills and digital literacy.  These workshops will also be necessary as teachers are expected to model using the technologies, be proficient to assist students who struggle and act as facilitators in the learning process to improve learning outcomes as set out in the  ISTE STANDARDS for Educators.   

Development of PLCs and PLNs

Training for students will help to close the digital divide among students and also promote digital equity.  Students are expected to become proficient so that they can acquire knowledge and make their learning experiences meaningful.  Exposure to technology will allow students to use an inquiry-based approach and make learning more student-centered.  See ISTE STANDARDS for Students.  

Hence, the development of professional learning networks (PLN) and professional learning communities (PLC) will be implemented as part of the school's digital strategy.  As the PLC and PLN are both results-oriented,  they will be beneficial to the strategy as educators can collaborate to share their experiences of using and integrating technology in their l essons, finding resources, mentoring peers, reporting, assessment towards improving student skills and learning.  The PLN or PLC can meet at a prescribed time.