Digital Literacy Tips
Getting Students Online
- Assess learners’ digital access and skills.
- Consider making this a part of the intake/orientation process.
- Assessment options include surveys (e.g., Google Forms, SurveyMonkey, ), phone calls, or text messaging as well as more formal assessments such as Northstar Digital Literacy.
- Set up a plan for communication based on learner access. This might include text messaging and phone calls rather than relying on emails or announcements sent through a course site or learning management system (LMS).
- Provide individualized technology support. Possible supports include providing digital literacy tutoring or connecting learners for peer mentoring.
- Limit the amount of technology tools introduced at one time and make sure learners are comfortable with tools before introducing new ones.
- Provide onboarding for new tools (e.g., demonstrations and how-to-videos for accessing online tools).
- Provide all materials in a centralized location (e.g., Canvas, Google Classroom, Padlet, WhatsApp, a class Facebook group, etc. ).
Building Digital Literacy Skills
- Conduct a digital literacy skills assessment.
- Integrate online tools into classroom activities.
- Model and scaffold instruction using tools.
- Integrate tools into class routines.
- Provide multiple opportunities to practice and use new tools and skills.
- Provide authentic opportunities for application of digital literacy skills.
- Assess where and how students plan to use digital literacy skills.
- Consider skills needed for community participation, postsecondary education, and/or workforce preparation.
- Recommendations for digital resources
Building Digital Resilience Skills
Digital Resilience in the American Workforce (DRAW): A project by JFF and World Education, supported by OCTAE. It helps adult education staff support learners who struggle with digital tasks by offering flexible, tested tools and strategies to build digital skills and confidence.
Building digital resilience means helping individuals develop the skills and confidence to adapt to new and changing technologies, solve problems using digital tools, and continue learning as technology evolves. Download a Digital Resilience Checklist for Instructors.
Here’s how to build digital resilience in adult education setting:
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Start with Digital Literacy Basics
- Teach foundational skills (e.g., using a mouse, keyboard, and touchscreen).
- Cover key software like email, browsers, word processors, and common apps.
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Focus on Problem-Solving and Adaptability
- Encourage a growth mindset: it’s okay to make mistakes while learning.
- Teach how to search for help (e.g., using search engines, help menus, forums).
- Practice troubleshooting common issues (like slow internet or error messages).
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Build Confidence Through Real-World Tasks
- Use practical examples (e.g., applying for a job online, using a map app, or managing an online account).
- Let learners explore and experiment in low-stakes environments.
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Support Ongoing Learning
- Introduce learners to trusted resources like GCFGlobal, Northstar, or local library tutorials.
- Teach how to evaluate information and learn new tools independently.
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Address Barriers
- Help learners access affordable devices and internet service.
- Create inclusive materials that reflect diverse needs, including accessibility features (like captions or screen reader support).
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Create a Safe, Encouraging Environment
- Foster peer support and community learning.
- Celebrate progress and provide consistent encouragement.
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Integrate Digital Skills Across Learning
- Don’t isolate digital skills—embed them in literacy, math, ESL, or job readiness instruction.
Visit the Digital Literacy Resources on the VALRC website for more information on resources to support learners, build skills, and determine online readiness.