Navigating the Digital World: Why Digital Literacy Matters

Everything is digital in this fast-paced world today. There are algorithms that determine which stories we see and natural language processing used to understand our voice commands, so from shopping and banking to keeping in touch with friends or family, there is not a single aspect of daily life where digital tools & platforms do the things we need. The emerging new reality, where it has become absolutely necessary to be “digitally literate.”

What is Digital Literacy?

Being digitally literate is actually much more than just knowing how to use a computer or smartphone. Digital literacy is knowing how to find, evaluate and produce information using digital tools. This involves mastering ways for staying safe online, safeguarding your personal data and learning how to communicate politely yet constructively.

Importance of Digital Literacy

• How You Live Now: Ordering groceries, job applications and keeping up with the latest news – all of these parts of daily life are made more accessible and efficient by digital skills. Every job today requires basic digital skills for his or her growth in the area. Being tech-savvy can also increase your job opportunities and advancements.
• Staying Safe Online: How digital tools can help you identify and avoid some common online scams, identity theft, misinformation.
• Social connections: The reason we are able to be connected on platforms like Sunrise is because of digital, meaning having the ability stay in contact with family and friends literally across the globe without leaving our homes.

How to Enhance Digital Literacy?

Sounds easy, right to improve Digital Literacy. Some resources to get you started…

1. Online Courses: Sites such as Coursera, Khan Academy and LinkedIn Learning provides free & paid courses on digital skills.
2. Local Libraries: Many libraries offer digital literacy workshops so be sure to see what programs are available in your area.

An implementation is always the best practice! Look for new apps, tools and websites to work on digital platforms.

Final Thoughts

Mastering digital literacy will help you make the most of what technology has to offer and do it safely. That is why learning something new today — or researching your options for how to learn it tomorrow, such as by enrolling in a marketing degree program – may prove beneficial to you later!

More to come on proper management of the digital world!