Study Support: Digital Literacy

1. Using available controls in a device (e.g. touchscreen to use the annotate function in video conferencing)
2. Using assistive technology (e.g. translation or text-to-speech tools)
3. Opening and accessing an application (e.g. web 2.0 tools such as padlet)
4. Connecting to the internet
5. Setting up an email account
6. Communicating using email or messaging apps
7. Sending photos using messaging apps or email
8. Using and sharing word processing documents
9. Using search engines

More information can be found on the Government's Essential Digital Skills framework

Six Areas of Digital Capability

1. ICT proficiency - The adoption of new devices, applications, software and and the capacity to stay up to date with ICT as it evolves. 
2. Digital Identity and Wellbeing - The capacity to develop and project a positive digital identity or identities and to manage digital reputation.  The capacity to look after personal health, safety, relationships and work-life balance in digital settings;
3. Information, Data and Media Literacies - The capacity to find, evaluate, manage, curate, organise and share digital information.  The capacity to collate, manage, access and use digital data.  The capacity to critically receive and respond to messages in a range of digital media
4. Digital Creation, Problem Solving and Innovation - The capacity to design and/or create new digital artefacts and materials. The capacity to use digital evidence to solve problems and answer questions.The capacity to adopt and develop new practices with digital technology
5. Digital Communication, Collaboration and Participation - The capacity to adopt and develop new practices with digital technology. The capacity to participate in digital teams and working groups. The capacity to participate in, facilitate and build digital networks
6. Digital learning and Development - The capacity to participate in and benefit from digital learning opportunities.  The capacity to support and develop others in digitally-rich settings,

You can read more about the six areas of digital capability on the JISC Repository

Cutting out Distractions

Consider which elements of your online life matter to you, and which do not. A useful exercise is to write down which notifications you most often receive and to cross out those that are not important. For example, direct messages from friends and family are important, whereas marketing emails and weather notifications are not. Next, turn off notifications, unsubscribe, delete, or mute the unnecessary distractions and see if you prefer the experience; with fewer (and more meaningful) notifications you'll likely find it easier to focus and enjoy using technology more.

Take Breaks

And try to take time away from screens no matter how much you're tempted to turn to social media or Netflix.  It's a good idea, instead, take some form of physical exercise

Be Mindful

Be aware of how much time you are using digital resources for,  maybe make a log and plan it out.

Monitor the impact on your mood

Make note, also of how you feel when you interact with the news and other social media. If some activities make you feel angry, frustrated or upset then maybe think about doing these less and finding something more positive.

LinkedIn Learning is a dedicated learning platform for educating users in all areas with a large focus on digital literacy. We have linked to the most useful courses below:

 Working With Computers and Devices

 Working and Collaborating Online

 Getting Started With Microsoft 365