Digital Literacy and Achievement | engage2learn

Digital literacy is the key to navigating an uncertain but bright future. As the world continues to digitize in new, exciting ways, it’s clear that our students’ futures will be filled with screens. They need to not only understand technology, but also learn to synthesize it into their lives in a way that encourages efficiency and facilitates collaboration.

It’s difficult to predict just where the digital age will take us, but one thing is clear: we need to equip learners with digital literacy skills to succeed in life, college, and career. There are clear applications for digital literacy in the real world, but it has astounding benefits for students in the classroom, as well.

Digital literacy affects achievement

Digital literacy isn’t some far-off goal; it’s a skill that learners can hone and use right now. When implemented correctly and aligned to learning, digital literacy has a huge impact on student achievement.

In fact, data suggests that learners with digital literacy skills tend to score higher on online assessments. As assessments move into the online world, it’s more important than ever to arm students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed.

Although there’s been a movement toward digital assessments, 70% of elementary teachers feel students aren’t prepared with the necessary skills to ace online tests. There’s a clear link between digital literacy and assessment scores. Learners need to be equipped with digital literacy skills to show competency not only on assessments, but in every experience they have in the classroom.

So how do we grow digital literacy skills in learners?

The answer isn’t always easy: the best course of action depends on community needs, learners, educators, and leadership. Although the exact plan will differ by location, it comes down to integrating technology into the classroom with learning at the forefront. When we prioritize learning and use technology as a tool for learning, digital literacy is seamlessly built into the curriculum, ultimately growing learners.

Want to learn more about e2L’s digital learning philosophy? Check out our Learning Environment Design (LEDe) page to learn more.