How New Literacies are Relevant to Us.

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                 In "Improving Digital Practices for Literacy, Learning, and Justice: More Than Just Tools" (ILA 2018) the article emphasizes the importance of integrating digital practices into literacy education not just for technical skills, but for fostering justice and equity. This document argues that digital literacy is essential for students to participate meaningfully in a digital society, and it should go beyond just knowing how to use tools or technology. Similarly to this in "Digital Literacy" (Vanek, 2019), the author examines the evolving concept of digital literacy and its importance in the modern educational and social landscape. The piece highlights that digital literacy goes beyond simply knowing how to use technology. It emphasizes the need for individuals to be able to critically engage with digital tools, understand how information is created and shared online, and use digital platforms in responsible and meaningful ways. 

            As I reflected on both pieces one specific similarity stuck out and related to professional career and that is the need for classes on digital literacy for all ages. Many of my employees at my child care center are retired therapists, nurses, and teachers. Many times, when starting the position, they have little to no knowledge on smart phones, tablets, apps, zoom/teams, or other digital tools. They lack the minimum education of digital tools and appropriate practices well using the technology. After reading these works it has become clear that critical engagement with digital tools and having literacy while using them will help people develop critical thinking skills, enabling them to question and challenge the content they encounter online. This involves understanding the role of digital media in shaping social, political, and cultural dynamics, and using technology as a means of empowerment rather than simply consumption. Unfortunately, there is the divide of access to the resources and there is a push for equity for all regardless of socioeconomic status and background. As an educator and employer, I recognize and value diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds and strive to support all in using digital tools to express their identities, learn collaboratively, and engage in social justice work, but first I must ensure that I am digitally literate. Both articles agree that digital literacy requires critical thinking, responsible ethical use, collaboration, and support learning, social justice, and active participation in the world. Through my work, students, employees, and myself will become lifelong learners and develop the capability to adapt to modern technology and gain new skills as they emerge. 


References

International Literacy Association. (2018). Improving digital practices for literacy, learning, and justice: more than just tools. https://www.literacyworldwide.org/docs/default-source/where-we-stand/ila-improving-digital-practices-literacy-learning-justice.pdf


Vanek, J. (2019). Digital Literacy. https://www.air.org/sites/default/files/TSTMDigitalLiteracyBrief-508.pdf



Comments

  1. Jacquelyn MartinezFebruary 2, 2025 at 2:58 PM

    I completely agree with you! It’s surprising how basic computer skills are a foundation for everything else in digital literacy. The fact that so many jobs require these skills really shows how important it is to teach them, especially now that remote work has increased, particularly after the pandemic. I try to focus on digital literacy in my classroom as well, but I definitely need more support in figuring out the right balance between technology and traditional methods to make sure my students get the most out of both.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Jackie MacGregorFebruary 2, 2025 at 5:21 PM

    Hi, Athena! Your point about retired individuals being unfamiliar with how to use different modes of technology made me think about how much literacy has evolved, and what this looks like in the classroom. Even when I was in primary school ~20 years ago, we were not using any form of technology in the classroom itself. My first memory of using technology at school is taking trips to the computer lab. What are your earliest memories of using technology at school?! It is interesting to think that now, my Kindergarten students ranging from 4-6 years old are not only capable of using computers and tablets, but proficient at it.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Michael TornsFebruary 2, 2025 at 9:06 PM

    Athena,
    I love how you mentioned your retired employees (thats weird) digital deficiencies. I know you didn't say it like that, but it's how I read it. Only because i'm coming from a similar place. Before I can incorporate it into my classroom, i'm with you, I must become proficient myself. This might be my biggest weakness. Sometimes I need my students to come and fix something for me on the computer or even my phone. Then comes the issue of my content area, which is mathematics, how do I do this? I need to take some more PD's on this.

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