Digital Literacy

Introduction

• Young people are often called digital natives.
  • Comfortable with digital devices and the internet
  • Digital culture allows access to information anytime, anywhere
• Risks: Lack of guidance can lead to serious problems.

Key Characteristics of Digital Media

• Networked:
  • Flow of information is two-way, unlike traditional TV which is one-way
  • User data can be tracked by content producers
  • Example: Like being in a theater where you can’t see who’s watching you, but they can see everything you do.
• Searchable and Shareable:
  • Online posts can be copied, shared, and spread easily
  • Even disappearing content is stored on servers
• Unknown and Unexpected Audiences:
  • No control over who sees your shared content

Digital Literacy: Key Skills

• Definition: Ability to use, understand, and create online content
• Importance: Essential for 21st-century skills, especially for youth

1. Ability to Use

• Beyond simple search tasks; involves using devices, websites, and other media platforms
• Finding credible information
• Personal example: Researching the lion dance for Chinese New Year
  • Learned security and privacy: No personal details, safe passwords, avoid suspicious links

2. Ability to Understand

• Judging and evaluating online information
  • Distinguish facts from fake news
  • Recognize brainwashing vs. accurate information
• Balance online/offline life
• Understanding healthy vs. unhealthy online relationships
• Contributing responsibly and safely online

3. Ability to Create

• Creating content like blogs, social media posts, and presentations
• Acknowledge the potential impacts of shared information
• Be thoughtful about how content can be understood by different audiences

Conclusion

• Three Skills: Use, understand, and create
• Apply these skills to become digitally literate and a competent digital citizen
• Be mindful of risks when using digital devices

Thank you.