panel on digital literacy - day of digital humanities

Panel on Digital Literacy Pitt-Johnstown September 12, 2015

Panel on Digital Literacy

Patricia Hagerich Computer Science Pitt-Johnstown

Paul Bond Owen Library Pitt-Johnstown


Digital Literacy has many definitions Computer Science Perspective: DL

includes both content and technology The ability to use digital technology,

communication tools and networks to locate, evaluate, use and create information.

The ability to understand and use information in multiple formats from a wide range of sources when it is presented via computers.

A person’s ability to perform tasks effectively in a digital environment

What is Digital Literacy?


Information Perspective IL can be defined broadly, so as to

encompass DL IL is sometimes defined narrowly, and

considered a subset of DL



• How are information literacy, digital literacy, and digital technologies related?



Evolving technology has changed the scope of literacy over the past few decades.◦ We now have a whole host of literacies. ◦ Along with these are a host of skills that people

are expected to know.◦ Bottom line: Information comes in many forms,

and flows through many channels. Digital is both the primary form and channel.

Scope of Literacy


◦ Expectations of so-called digital natives◦ Adapting to rapid change results in lifelong

learning◦ Competency theory - people tend to misjudge

(overestimate) their abilities◦ Organized, programmatic plans to develop

literacies are rare

Why Digital Literacy Matters


◦ Yes - it enables deeper understanding◦ No - tools allow users to operate above the code

level◦ Maybe

Other disciplines provide constantly evolving tools How are changing tools used Are other skills more important?

Is the Knowledge of Coding Required to be Digitally

Literate?


How does digital literacy affect today’s “digital lifestyle”? ◦ We live in a “networked society”◦ Who benefits from digital literacy?◦ Ethics in a digital world

“Digital Lifestyle”


What do we do to develop digital literacy among our students?

How will digital literacy influence careers in the future?

What should we be doing now?

Questions for Discussion

panel on digital literacy - day of digital humanities

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