Digital Literacy

What do you think of when you hear digital literacy? 

       This blog will provide a little insight on the importance of digital literacy in a 21st century classroom. Digital literacy has to do with being able to find, decipher, consume, and create digital content. One thing that is different when reading online versus reading a book is the fact that there is much more attached to digital content. Often there are links provided, pictures attached, or videos to watch included in the material. Even if these are not present, the simple fact of having options to comment, like, or share what is read online is something that has to be taken into consideration and taught about for children to become good digital citizens. Anyone viewing digital content is deciding just how much they want to interact with the text, versus just reading a book. It is also important that students understand that once it is on the internet, anyone can see it. Therefore, they must learn the safety rules to sharing. Appropriate behavior must be taught and responsibility is key! Despite the effort that must be put in to carry out careful procedures, using digital literacy in the classroom can bring so much more life to the atmosphere. Some of the perks include collaboration with colleagues, communication with other classes, and ultimately building character traits for the future. Being able to look up or share information on the internet allows teachers to help and receive help from many other colleagues. It is also great to get to communicate with probably any other classroom in the world through the use of digital literacy. In addition, one thing that is probably not thought about often is the fact that the students are also building character traits that will come into play later down the road, now that technology is such a huge part of our society. With all the positives, does come a few negatives. These include needing to watch for cyber bullying, a potential loss of social skills, and students trying to use unreliable sources. Regardless on whether you are unsure about technology or not, it is a huge influence on today's teaching and all teachers need to figure out how to get on board. Students start leaving a digital footprint at a young age. We might as well help them leave a good one. Some ways digital literacy can be included in the classroom is through the use of apps and ebooks. There are so many apps that can be used such as Toontastic, Little Bird Tales, Shadowpuppet, Padlet, Plickers, Kahoot, Whiteboard, sock puppets, and more. These are all a variety of digital story telling, questioning apps, and apps that allow students to turn their writing into videos. Overall digital literacy allows for more student engagement and the chance for students to let their personal creativity shine. It can require critical thinking and digital discernment which are all around helpful, no matter what stage of life one may be in. 

Watch the video below for more digital literacy motivation!