Digital Literacy
According to research, a "digital divide" is exacerbated by a lack of digital literacy. Less access to digital interactions means fewer opportunities for those with lower incomes, older age groups, less education, unemployment, or disabilities to learn how to use technology (SREB, 2018). Many of these people—many of whom are already marginalized—are further isolated by their lack of digital literacy because they are unable to participate in political processes, government services, or economic opportunities (SREB, 2018).
When viewed through a critical lens and in the context of a student's future success, the degree of digital literacy that a student possesses is a crucial factor in the field of educational technology because it is crucial for students to have the knowledge and skills required to use technology effectively in both their education and future careers. In this era of quick technological advancement, technology is becoming more and more important in all facets of education, from online research and communication to virtual teamwork and project-based learning.
Students who lack digital literacy may find it challenging to keep up with their classmates in today's technologically advanced environment. They might be at a disadvantage when it comes to getting information, connecting with others, and finishing tasks that call for the use of technology. Additionally, they might be more susceptible to online risks like cyber-bullying, identity theft, and false information.
Therefore, it is crucial for teachers to make sure that their students are taught how to effectively use technology. Inclusion of digital literacy requirements in the curriculum, evaluation, and documentation are all areas that need improvement (Hinrichsen & Coombs, 2014). By giving students the chance to learn and practice the skills that are crucial for academic performance, educators can better prepare students for success in both school and in life.
“Technology (in the classroom) is less of a choice and more of a responsibility.” – Scott Widman, 2019.
The 21st Century Learning and Life Skills: Framework video by Teachings in Education (2018) puts it best: "Life outside of school is nothing like the classroom environment." Using the framework provided by the Partnership for 21st Century Learning, this video provides an overview of 21st century learning for instructors.
Skills in digital literacy should be a part of the curriculum from kindergarten on up. Groups like Partnerships for 21st Century Learning (P21.org) and International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) have put in a lot of time and effort to build student standards that take digital literacy into account and disseminate relevant information and media on the topic (SREB, 2018). The foundation for students' progressive digital literacy skills is provided by the ISTE's seven standards, each of which includes four indicators used to gauge achievement of the standards (SREB, 2018).
The Digital Literacy Global Framework (DLGF) is another resource that provides a baseline framework for digital literacy skills.
Technology Security
Technology security is required at every level of operation in today's institutions, from individual users to the network, institution, and even vendor partners, and this includes everything from learning management systems to access points to wireless networks to student information systems. Increasingly schools and institutions are vulnerable to external access because they use third-party vendor networks, cloud-based services, and online instructional technologies (SREB, 2018).
To safeguard students, staff, and institutions from the loss or corruption of private information due to a breach in technology security, state governments need to back robust legislation in this area, as well as offer proper training and resources. This could result in the need for identity theft protection as well as legal action (SREB, 2018).
It is imperative that adequate resources be made available in order to protect information and information systems from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction, while also ensuring that these resources remain highly accessible for the purposes of education and the operation of educational institutions (SREB, 2018).
It seems to me that security is a worldwide problem that permeates every facet of our culture. Governments and large companies frequently employ it as a means of monitoring and exerting control over their populations. It's given more weight than it deserves in the classroom, creating an atmosphere where students are afraid to take chances. Furthermore, it is often created and owned by multinational corporations based in wealthy countries, which may not fully comprehend or prioritize the needs of educators and students in less privileged contexts. The larger social, political, and economic circumstances that impact the usage and development of technology must be considered from a critical viewpoint on technology security in education.
Resources
Hinrichsen, J., & Coombs, A. (2014). The five resources of Critical Digital Literacy: A framework for curriculum integration. Research in Learning Technology, 21. https://doi.org/10.3402/rlt.v21.21334
SREB. (2018, February). 10 issues in Educational Technology. Southern Regional Education Board. Retrieved April 1, 2023, from https://www.sreb.org/10issues
Teachings in Educaion. (2018, November 16). 21st Century learning & life skills: Framework. YouTube. Retrieved April 28, 2023, from https://youtu.be/ixRBjEW_sFs
Widman, S. (2019, October 21). Technology, the best or worst thing for education: Scott Widman: Tedxyouth@bspr. YouTube. Retrieved April 28, 2023, from https://youtu.be/9IbN1LxXevM
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