Digital Literacy Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Speaker: Sian
• Co-presenter: Tim
• Focus: Various aspects of digital literacy and its importance for distance learning students.

Definition of Digital Literacy

• Digital Literacy: Having the right digital skills to achieve personal and academic goals.
• Examples of Digital Skills:
  • Checking emails using a phone
  • Using search engines for information.

Importance of Digital Skills for Distance Learners

• Distance learners can benefit greatly from digital literacy.
• Series aims to help develop existing skills and introduce new ones.

Skills Covered in the Series

1. Searching for Information
   • Finding answers to questions using online resources.
2. Evaluating Information
   • Importance of assessing the accuracy and truthfulness of information found online.
3. Communication
   • Tips for keeping in touch with tutors and fellow students digitally.
4. Accessing Course Materials
   • How to access and utilize course materials effectively.
5. Submitting Work
   • Guidance on submitting assignments online.
6. Online Safety
   • Importance of staying safe while using digital tools and platforms.

Using Institutional Digital Platforms

• Most academic institutions have a private digital platform for students.
• Key Functions of Platforms:
  • Manage learning
  • Communicate with tutors
  • Access course materials
  • Submit coursework
• Encourages student engagement and interaction.

Conclusion

• Digital literacy is manageable and many skills may already be possessed by the learner.
• Emphasis on the importance of developing digital skills for effective distance learning.