What is Digital Literacy and Why is it Necessary?

digital literacy Do you often hear the expression but don’t know what it means and why it is important? Digital literacy; It refers to people understanding and using digital technologies correctly. At this point, in addition to the use of digital technologies, communicating correctly and analyzing information online is also very important.

At the same time, acting in accordance with digital ethical rules and the security of data are also vital. We are also in this guide Why is digital literacy necessary? and we will talk about digital literacy skills.

Why is Digital Literacy Necessary?

Nowadays, technology has become an important part of our lives. Therefore, the importance of digital literacy has also increased. People started to benefit from digital platforms to manage their daily lives. The concept we mentioned is especially needed in terms of the correct use of digital platforms.

It can be said that it is an important concept in terms of keeping up with digital and making full use of digital technologies. This important concept of digital literacy is especially necessary at the following points;

• Facilitating and accelerating the communication process
• Encourage creativity
• Easier access to information
• Maximizing online security
• Ensuring progress in professional and educational life

What are Digital Literacy Skills?

Digital literacy skills can be listed as follows:

1. Media Literacy, Content Production and Creativity

Accessing and critically evaluating different types of media messages, including print, visual and audio media literacy is called. Media literate can produce their own media messages. It also stands out in creativity. People can do work such as creative blog posts, graphic design and video creation.

2. Critical Perspective Skill

Questioning the accuracy of all information obtained on digital platforms means that critical perspective skills develop.

3. Computer Basics

Basic computer knowledge is required to use smartphones, tablets and computers. Having basic computer knowledge is essential in the digital authoring process.

4. Digital Security

Security is very important to protect against possible cyber attacks in digital environments. Strong passwords should be used to ensure the security of each account and personal area. Correct and appropriate infrastructures must be provided to protect against malicious software.

5. Digital Communication

Social media platforms, email accounts, etc. Information is needed when communicating through digital communication tools. Digital literacy skills are gained through information and digital communication.

6. İnternet

The internet is important in acquiring digital literacy skills. İnternet It is also necessary to navigate between sites, use social media platforms and e-mail accounts. It is also needed when searching for information on the Internet.

What are the Stages of Digital Literacy?

Digital literacy consists of 3 stages. These stages can be listed as follows:

1. To understand

Understanding and following the processes in the digital environment is important to prevent possible grievances. Examining the processes on digital platforms, monitoring the processes of accessing information, and making critical evaluations are all about understanding. At the understanding stage, the information should be analyzed correctly and then separated into what is useful and what is not.

2. Correct usage

Proper use of technological devices is also included in the stages of digital literacy. In addition to the correct use of smartphones, tablets and computers, updating digital information is also an important factor. Correct reading of computing data and the use of web browsers and e-mail accounts are also among the stages of digital literacy.

3. Production

Production is needed for the digital literacy stages to progress correctly. After the correct use and understanding of technological devices, production begins. Producing content for many different media tools and then sharing them is among the stages of digital literacy. Digital literacy stages Examples of production include blog pages and videos and written texts on social media platforms.