Description of Digital Literacy

Description of Digital Literacy


Digital Literacy: The process of learning about technology and how to use it.

In the most basic definition, to be “literate” means primarily to know how to read and write. When applied to a specific subject area, it means being familiar with and knowledgeable about that topic. Digital literacy applies to the digital world:

  • What technology do you know how to use?
  • What kinds of technology do you use regularly?
  • How about different technologies used in businesses and places of work – are you familiar with any specific computer software or electronic equipment?
  • What would you choose to use if you were given a class assignment to create a multimedia project of your choice?

And don’t forget the Internet – a whole different category of knowledge.

  • How comfortable are you navigating around the Internet?
  • What do you use to find information?
  • Are you able to find what you’re looking for fairly quickly?
  • And once you find an answer, how can you tell if it’s accurate?

This section of Digital Citizenship involves being knowledgeable about using technology and the Internet-- and knowing how to find out when you aren't.


Ribble, Mike. "Nine Themes of Digital Citizenship." Digital Citizenship: Using Technology Appropriately. 2010. Web. 23 June 2010. <http://www.digitalcitizenship.net/Nine_Elements.html>.
Last modified: Tuesday, 26 June 2012, 9:27 AM