Let's Teach our Children to be Digitally Intelligent

S.T.E.A.M stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math.

By incorporating hands-on activities into our children's curriculum, it will help them to improve skills like:

Creativity

Critical Thinking

Independent Thinking

Brainstorming

Problem-solving

Teamwork

In today's digitally-driven world, it's no secret that technology has become an integral part of our lives. From smartphones and tablets to laptops and smart home devices. We are surrounded by technology! For children growing up in this digital age, digital literacy has never been more important. In this post, we will explore the significance of digital literacy for children and why it is essential for their future success.

Our world is becoming more digital by the day, which is why teaching our children to become digitally Intelligent is crucial.

What are Digital Skills?

Digital skills consist of principles like clear and concise communication, conducting online transactions, problem-solving, and being safe and legal while online. The World Economic Forum has a great article that outlines the type of skills that we should be teaching our children. Here is how they break down some important digital skills to have:

Digital identity:

The ability to create and manage one’s online identity and reputation. This includes an awareness of one's online persona and management of the short-term and long-term impact of one's online presence.

Digital use:

The ability to use digital devices and media, including the mastery of control to achieve a healthy balance between life online and offline.

Digital safety:

The ability to manage risks online (e.g. cyberbullying, grooming, radicalization) as well as problematic content (e.g. violence and obscenity), and to avoid and limit these risks.

Digital security:

The ability to detect cyber threats (e.g., hacking, scams, malware), understand best practices, and ,use suitable security tools for data protection.

Digital emotional intelligence:

The ability to be empathetic and build good relationships with others online.

Digital communication:

The ability to communicate and collaborate with others using digital technologies and media.

Digital literacy:

The ability to find, evaluate, utilize, share and create content as well as to be competent in computational thinking.

Digital rights:

The ability to understand and uphold personal and legal rights, including the rights to privacy, intellectual property, freedom of speech, and protection from hate speech.

While Digital Skills refer to the ability to perform specific tasks and actions, Digital Literacy encompasses a broader set of competencies, including understanding, analyzing, and navigating the complexities of the digital landscape.

Digital Literacy

Basic Computer Skills:

Children need to learn how to operate computers, tablets, and other digital devices. This includes understanding hardware components, using software, and navigating user interfaces.

Internet Safety:

Teaching children about online safety is crucial. They should understand how to protect their personal information, recognize and avoid online threats, and use privacy settings on social media and websites.

Information Literacy:

In the age of information overload, children must learn how to evaluate the credibility of online sources, distinguish between fact and opinion, and conduct effective online research.

Digital Communication:

Digital literacy also involves teaching children how to communicate effectively using digital tools, such as email, instant messaging, and video conferencing.

Coding and Programming:

Introducing children to coding and programming concepts helps them understand how technology works and nurtures problem-solving and logical thinking skills.