Digital Literacy is the ability to find, evaluate, use, and compose clear information through electronic mediums, referred to as digital platforms. Digital literacy refers to media from the computer, internet, smartphones, video games, and other electronic sources.  With the Coronavirus shutting down businesses throughout the United States, more people have become aware of the importance of having digital literacy (computer skills).  Learning online in the past few days has become more common place and accepted as an alternative instructional strategy. 

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Computer skills, which are transferable skills that people need in most places of employment, is an important skill set to acquire.  Learning computer skills is also connected to learning important life skills, like communication skills and listening skills.  In effort to learn how to use a computer, we have to have reading comprehension skills, to be able to read and understand written instructions when learning how to use technology tools.  We also must have good listening skills when a trainer or teacher gives us verbal instruction, in addition to having good problem solving and information processing skills to be able to use the tools effectively when systems do not operate/function as normal or when there are changes and advances (upgrades) to technology systems. 

Digital Literacy is essential to our being able to continue running our businesses in the era of this pandemic, especially when we are forced to work from home.  Students, entrepreneurs, and employees have to learn how to use technology tools, because learning and most shopping is now required to be online only during this pandemic.  The worst thing that derived from the Coronavirus pandemic is that lives were lost. The best thing that derived from the Coronavirus pandemic is that everyone has to embrace that the future of the world involves being able to use technology tools effectively. 

 

One of the challenges with using technology tools is digital access; meaning there are some people who do not have access to a basic personal computer, tablet, laptop, and/or smart phone.  We need to close this digital divide by providing everyone with access and training on the use of computer software programs.  To decrease the digital divide and increase digital literacy, there are websites like Lynda.com and GCF Learn Free that are available for free to help you get started learning how to use technology tools and software programs.  Adults who work full-time benefit from online learning, because it provides the equal opportunity for working adults to be able to earn a college degree by attending schools that foster online education. 

 

Having digital literacy skills is required in this modern world that we live in.  If you do not have computer skills, you can check with your church and local library to find out about free computer training classes or take some college courses learning computer using packages.  For children, in this day and time, most children are already savvy in the use of technology tools, but may not be as familiar with online education, so visit websites such as www.abcmouse.com or www.adventureacademy.com (30 day trial free) for more assistance, as well as contact your school for educational support.

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By Lynnette Clement