Digital literacy is an individual's ability to find, evaluate, and communicate information by

utilizing typing or digital media platforms. It is a combination of both technical and cognitive
abilities in using information and communication technologies to create, evaluate, and share
information.[1]

While digital literacy initially focused on digital skills and stand-alone computers, the advent of
the internet and the use of social media has resulted in a shift in some of its focus to mobile
devices. Similar to other evolving definitions of literacy that recognize the cultural and historical
ways of making meaning,[2] digital literacy does not replace traditional methods of interpreting
information, but rather extends the foundational skills of these traditional literacies. [3] Digital
literacy should be considered a part of the path towards acquiring knowledge.[4]

https://www.learning.com/blog/what-is-digital-literacy-definition-and-uses-in-daily-life/

What is Digital Literacy: Definition

Digital literacy means having the skills to effectively use technology, and the knowledge and
skills to do so safely and responsibly. “Digital” refers to technology, ranging from computers and
the internet to technological objects and programs such as cellphones, smart home systems,
check-in kiosks at airports and more. Literacy refers to the ability to use this technology—and to
use it well.

The phrase “digital literacy” is an ambiguous one, but that’s kind of the point. Once predicated
on the existing “literacies” of the time, (e.g. information literacy and computer literacy, as
referenced in Digital Literacy by Paul Gilster), the modern definition has grown significantly in
line with the advancement and evolution of existing technologies. Now, instead of outlining
which technologies, exactly, are included in “digital literacy,” the phrase more commonly refers
to literacy that broadly encompasses technology. This helps to prevent the need to redefine the
“digital” aspect of the phrase.

Why is Digital Literacy Important?

While digital literacy was originally seen as a skill that was beneficial for career readiness—
specifically for higher-paying technology-related jobs—it is now seen as an integral life skill.
Digital literacy still provides career readiness; however, it is also crucial to education and
socialization, and is even becoming more ingrained in day-to-day actions from smart home
systems and security, banking, shopping, driving and utilizing vehicle features and more.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/
338607157_THE_IMPORTANCE_OF_TEACHERS'_DIGITAL_LITERACY/link/5e1f1caba6fdcca1f12c623f/
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https://pce.sandiego.edu/digital-literacy/

What is Digital Literacy?

UNICEF defines digital literacy as “the knowledge, skills and attitudes that allow children to flourish and
thrive in an increasingly global digital world, being both safe and empowered, in ways that are
appropriate to their age and local cultures and contexts.”

Through the lens of education, we like to think of digital literacy as a student’s ability to use digital tools
and technologies to work, learn and interact. Digital literacy manifests as both cognitive and technical
skills.

Why is Digital Literacy Important?

Digital literacy is important for a number of reasons — it can improve learning, help students discern
misinformation and it gives them access to a wide variety of resources, among other things. But most
importantly, children are more exposed to the digital world than older generations. UNICEF reports that
70% of 15–24-year-olds are on the internet, so they are developing digital skills all on their own. This
leaves room for them to develop poor digital literacy, unless there is purposeful instruction in their
schooling.

6 Benefits of Digital Literacy

Beyond being a basic required skill to move about in today’s connected world, there are a number of
specific benefits students will realize once they gain digital literacy skills.

1. Improved writing, reading, listening and speaking skills

2. Ability to identify authentic materials
3. Increased frequency and ability to use digital technology
4. Enhanced ability to collaborate with teachers and peers
5. Enhanced engagement
6. Improved academic performance