In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, the ability to navigate the online world effectively has become an essential skill. At the Postsecondary Persistence Project, we recognized the growing importance of digital literacy and decided to embark on a journey to develop a comprehensive Digital Literacy Guide. This guide brings together a wealth of resources, both from Ontario sources and open-access materials available on the internet, to empower individuals with the digital skills needed to thrive in the digital age.
The Motivation Behind the Guide
We understand the pressing need for digital literacy, especially among students in today’s postsecondary landscape. The digital divide is a reality that affects all students, and it is our mission to bridge this gap. We aimed to provide a valuable resource that caters to the diverse needs and preferences of students seeking to enhance their digital skills.
The Data Gathering Process
Creating a comprehensive Digital Literacy Guide required a diligent and systematic approach. We scoured resources from various Ontario sources, including public libraries, government initiatives, and non-profit organizations. These sources offered a wealth of materials and programs designed to boost digital skills within the province. We also explored open-access resources on the internet, including websites, courses, and tools available to anyone with an internet connection. Our goal was to ensure that our guide was not only inclusive but also accessible to a global audience.
The Guide’s Structure
Our Digital Literacy Guide is structured to cater to a wide range of users:
- Public Libraries: We’ve gathered information from Ontario public libraries that offer digital literacy programs and workshops, such as the Toronto Public Library’s Digital Innovation Hubs.
- Government Initiatives: We’ve included details about government initiatives like the Digital Literacy Exchange (DLE) and eCampusOntario, which provide digital literacy training and online courses.
- Non-profit Organizations: Various non-profit organizations, such as Canada Learning Code and TechSoup Canada, are featured in our guide. These organizations offer resources and programs to enhance digital literacy skills.
- Additional Resources: We’ve compiled resources from open-access materials, including courses, articles, and websites that cater to a broader audience.
Our commitment to empowering individuals with digital literacy skills is an ongoing process, and we are dedicated to regularly updating the guide to ensure that it remains a dynamic and comprehensive resource for all.
Click here to see the most updated version of the guide, and more information about Digital Literacy in the Student Success Toolkit.
the persistence project 