Digital Literacy 101: Introduction Cheat Sheet
What is Digital Literacy?
- The ability to find, evaluate, create, and communicate information using digital technologies
- Combines technical skills with critical thinking, ethical awareness, and social understanding
- Goes beyond basic tech skills to include judgment, discernment, and intentional use
Core Digital Literacy Skills
- Information Evaluation: Assessing credibility and relevance of online content
- Technical Fluency: Understanding how digital tools and systems work
- Privacy & Security: Protecting personal data and digital assets
- Critical Thinking: Questioning assumptions and recognizing manipulation
- Communication: Expressing ideas effectively in digital environments
- Ethical Awareness: Understanding impacts of digital choices
Why Digital Literacy Matters
- Information Quality: Separating facts from misinformation
- Personal Agency: Making informed choices about technology use
- Privacy Protection: Controlling your personal information
- Wellbeing: Creating healthy relationships with technology
- Civic Participation: Engaging effectively in digital public spaces
- Career Readiness: Adapting to evolving workplace technologies
Digital Literacy Self-Assessment Questions
- How confident are you in evaluating online information?
- Can you identify potential privacy or security risks?
- Do you understand how algorithms influence what you see online?
- How intentional are you about your technology use?
- Can you find exactly what you need online efficiently?
- Do you encounter diverse perspectives in your digital life?
Quick Tips for Digital Literacy Development
- Question sources before accepting information
- Read beyond headlines and first search results
- Check privacy settings on all accounts regularly
- Be mindful of your digital habits and patterns
- Seek diverse perspectives and information sources
- Stay curious about how digital technologies work
- Regularly reassess your digital tools and practices