Importance of Digital Literacy
The Importance of Digital Literacy: Bridging the Gap
Kristina Nelon
ENG 122
Instructor Jena Klein
Ashford University
April 13, 2015
The Importance of Digital Literacy: Bridging the Gap Even though many people might say that digital literacy is not an invaluable tool to learn, and that they can get by just fine without understanding how the internet works, the intention of this paper to inform the reader about the significance of being digitally literate. “Digital literacy, which at its most basic level, means understanding how and why computers work, and knowing the best way to use them to accomplish our career and personal goals.” (Bowles 2013) Without utilizing these necessary tools, society is inflicted with what is known as the “digital divide,” therefore, creating a digital gap between the two worlds. For example, by integrating basic computer skills into children 's everyday lives, it could essentially bridge the gap and help build global social inclusion. Currently, governments across the world have already started providing low income areas with the tools necessary to be digitally literate, helping people go back to school to be more successful in the workforce. By honing digital literacy skills, one will possess the ability to be successful in school, create job safety, protect their identity and adapt to the evolution of technology, with ease.
People who are resistant or incapable of becoming digital literate can be categorized into a rather social exclusion, furthering the digital divide. According to the book, Technology as a Tool for Diversity Leadership: Implementation and Future Implications, “The U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration is the first to use the digital divide in an official publication.” (Millington 2012) Furthermore, social exclusion is the inability to engage in normal relationships and activities that are available to the majority. It is not limited entirely to
Kristina Nelon
ENG 122
Instructor Jena Klein
Ashford University
April 13, 2015
The Importance of Digital Literacy: Bridging the Gap Even though many people might say that digital literacy is not an invaluable tool to learn, and that they can get by just fine without understanding how the internet works, the intention of this paper to inform the reader about the significance of being digitally literate. “Digital literacy, which at its most basic level, means understanding how and why computers work, and knowing the best way to use them to accomplish our career and personal goals.” (Bowles 2013) Without utilizing these necessary tools, society is inflicted with what is known as the “digital divide,” therefore, creating a digital gap between the two worlds. For example, by integrating basic computer skills into children 's everyday lives, it could essentially bridge the gap and help build global social inclusion. Currently, governments across the world have already started providing low income areas with the tools necessary to be digitally literate, helping people go back to school to be more successful in the workforce. By honing digital literacy skills, one will possess the ability to be successful in school, create job safety, protect their identity and adapt to the evolution of technology, with ease.
People who are resistant or incapable of becoming digital literate can be categorized into a rather social exclusion, furthering the digital divide. According to the book, Technology as a Tool for Diversity Leadership: Implementation and Future Implications, “The U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration is the first to use the digital divide in an official publication.” (Millington 2012) Furthermore, social exclusion is the inability to engage in normal relationships and activities that are available to the majority. It is not limited entirely to
References: Bowles, M. (2013). Introduction to Digital Literacy. San Diego, CA. Dwyer, K. &. (2013). General Education Oral Communication Assessment and Student Preferences for Learning: E-textbook versus Paper Textbook. Communication Teacher, 27(2), 111-125. doi:10.1080.17404622.2012.752514 Millington, P. C. (2012). Using Prospect to Explore the Digital Divide. Technology as a Tool for Diversity Leadership: Implementation and Future Implications. 49-50. doi:10.4018/978-1-4666-2668-3.ch004 Park, S. (2012). Dimensions of Digital Media Literacy and the Relationships with Social Exclusion. Media International Australia 8/1/07-Current(Communication & Mass Complete), no. 142: 87-100. Retrieved March 13, 2015 Poore, M. (2011, June). Human Flourishing and Collective Intelligence in a Knowledge Society. Literacy Learning: The Middle Years, 19, 20-26. Retrieved from http://search.informit.com.au/documentSummary; dn=1 11308665 720373;res=IE LHSS ISSN: 1320-5692 Reiss, D. (2013). TEXTBOOKS to TABLETS. District Administration, 49(2), 60. Stoiciu, A. (2011, September). The Role of e-Governance in Bridging the Digital Divide. UN Chronicle, 48(3), 37.