Digital literacy is about more than understanding and using technology. While it is important for students to understand how to use devices and the internet, digital behaviors and critical thinking are essential to developing digital literacy skills. These skills can be gained through various literacies and practices described below:
ICT literacy - Information and Communication Technology literacy is the ability to create, communicate and share information using technology available on any device.
Information literacy - the ability to recognize the need for information and determine the nature and extent of the information needed, use diverse technologies appropriately and effectively to search for and retrieve information and interpret search results, critically evaluate information and the information seeking process, manage information, and use information with understanding and acknowledge cultural, ethical, economic, legal, and social implications.
Media literacy - the ability to critically analyze and evaluate different types of media.
Communication and collaboration - the ability to understand the scholarly environment, use a range of digital communications tools, and show awareness of identity and reputation management.
Academic practice - the ability to study and learn effectively in formal and informal technology environments. This includes the use of digital tools to support critical thinking, academic writing, note-taking, reference management, time and task management, and independent study using digital resources and learning materials.
Professional development training - the ability to make informed decisions and achieve goals through the effective use of digital tools and media, which may include e-portfolios, professional online communication and collaboration tools, and demonstrating an awareness of identity and reputation management.