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The global economy is becoming increasingly digitized.

An animated digital globe that shows electronic connections moving from point to point

The demand for a digitally skilled workforce continues to rise. Digital skills are fundamental to communication, employment, education, and socialization.

These skills will shape the workforce of tomorrow and become a significant contributor towards creating an equitable society.

Schools can play a huge role in the expansion of these digital skills and competencies.

There are simple ways for educators to create opportunities for students to practice and improve their digital literacy skills β€” the same skills they can take with them into any classroom and job setting in the future!

Defining Digital Literacy πŸ’»

An animation of a person using a laptop.

Digital literacy is an individual's ability to find, evaluate, and communicate information through the use of digital devices and other media on various digital platforms.

This includes everything from searching online to website development. By developing digital skills, students are able to better communicate and collaborate, develop and share digital content, and solve problems in today's global economy.

Schools as the Birthplace of Digital Skills βš™οΈ

According to the World Economic Forum, 65% of today’s primary school students will be working in a job that currently doesn’t exist.

It's imperative that we equip these children with the skills needed to thrive in the workplace of the future.

In the absence of strong public policy β€” even though in 2014 the U.N Committee on the Rights of the Child advised member governments to include digital literacy in their national school curriculums β€” our schools must lead this initiative.

A teacher helping a group of students with an in-class digital activity.Image by pch.vector on Freepik

Bringing Digital Literacy To The Classroom πŸ“š

Incorporating digital technologies into the classroom can lead to profound advances in student engagement and learning which can ensure that students are keeping up with the demand of a technology based world.

-- Chloe D’Angelo, University of Ontario Institute of Technology

A child uses a math app on an ipad to complete algebra equations.

  • Offer students the opportunity to show what they know using technology

  • Provide access to supplementary materials online

  • Use educational apps for in-class activities and homework exercises

Check out this video for some of the best teaching apps! πŸ‘ˆ

More Ways to Introduce Digital Skills in the Classroom β€” Without a Defined Curriculum ⌨️

Technology skills are the fuel for further progress and innovation in society, business and government.

-- Dr. Peter Dry, teacher and scientist

  • Provide opportunities for students to code, create digital games, etc.

  • Ensure access to robotics through classes or after-school/weekend clubs.

  • Create summer programs that focus entirely on digital skills.

  • Integrate technology across subjects so that students aren't learning these skills in isolation or passively.

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Top Digital Literacy Skills Employers Want To See πŸ“§

As technology continues to evolve, a major digital transformation is happening in the workforce. Because of this increased demand and reliance on technology, it's important that students have the opportunity to develop their digital skills.

What are some of the most "in-demand" digital skills?

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1. Computer Literacy

Knowing their way around the digital landscape is key. By providing students an opportunity to explore the digital world in school, they'll become more familiar with key terms and common platforms used in the workforce.

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2. Web-based Communications and Research

With new technology being created every day, it's important for students to be life-long learners. The ability to independently research and problem-solve is a highly valuable skill.

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3. Email and Chat

Whether collaborating through Google Docs or using the latest work operating systems, students need to learn how to communicate effectively. The classroom can be a wonderful resource for students to practice and improve their email and chat skills.

Quiz

Which of the following tasks will help students develop digital skills for future employment?

Did you know?

With the popularity of technologies like blockchain and AI, business requirements for digital skills are up by 50% in the USA and Europe (Forbes, "From The Great Resignation To The Great Digital Skills Divide: The Need For Empathetic Leaders In A Digital-First World", 2022).

Case Study: The Tech Pillar of the JA Company Program πŸ”‘

In 2019, Junior Achievement identified technology as a strategic pillar of the JA Company Program in Houston.

We strived to create familiarity with tech, and with our robust competition framework, pivoted from the traditional classroom model to focus more on ideation and design.

We focused on creating an innovation mindset amongst our teen entrepreneurs using technology for inspiration and as a source of creativity.

Students worked on a Tech Innovation Challenge every year, rooted in innovations that would re-imagine or enhance existing tech solutions to real world problems.

Check out this report to learn more about the success of our program! πŸ‘ˆ

An animation of a machine that incorporates different digital skills.

Take Action

Digital literacy is a transferable skill!

The ability to adapt to new technology is a skill that will grow every time students explore new and existing technologies.

Whether it means working on a simple tech challenge focused on design or learning to use social media to promote their personal brand, there are boundless possibilities to explore in and outside of the classroom.

Students working on a digital assignment in a high school class.Photo by Ahmad Faiz on Unsplash

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This Byte has been authored by

EG

Emmalyn Green

Passionate Program Manager & EdTech Advocate

MM

Marylyne Milanzi

Marketing and Public Relations Officer

DA

Daniela Alvarez

Program Coordinator

TD

Tania Daniel

Senior Director of Entrepreneurship Initiatives

English

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