#BTColumn – Digital Literacy: The New Frontier in Secondary Education

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the author(s) do not represent the official position of Barbados TODAY.

By Steven Williams

Last week, I had the distinct privilege of presenting to the first-year students at a secondary school on digital literacy, a topic as near and dear to me as data privacy. I’ve long believed that our educational system has been preparing our nation’s youth for jobs that are either becoming obsolete or leaving them undertrained, considering that nearly every industry has transformed into a specialised information technology (IT) service. For instance, I firmly believe banks today are essentially IT companies that provide financial services. This evolution means that, like Maths or English, digital literacy has become a fundamental requirement for personal development and employment.

During my upbringing, digital literacy focused primarily on the basic functional use of a personal desktop computer (PC), often encompassing business productivity tools such as word processing, spreadsheets, and database skills. Today, however, digital literacy encompasses a broader set of skills required to navigate, evaluate, and create information using a range of digital technologies effectively and responsibly. This includes not only traditional computers but also mobile devices, the Internet, and other digital tools.

The skill set for digital literacy goes beyond just the basics; it encompasses using search engines effectively, understanding digital content, utilising software and applications, and possessing a keen awareness of online safety and security. For our nation’s youth, the emphasis should be on developing technical skills and the ability to understand and utilise information in various digital formats. This includes the capability to find, evaluate, and communicate information online, skills that are becoming increasingly important in a world where digital technology pervades every aspect of our lives.

Indeed, in an era where artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming more prevalent, the ability to apply critical thinking in the digital realm is paramount. AI technologies are shaping how information is processed and presented, making it essential for students to not only access and use digital information but also to critically assess and interpret it. This forms the foundation for a possible digital literacy certificate programme in secondary schools which should include:

1. Basic Computer and Device Skills: Given the current season of educational reform, every secondary school should have a digital literacy certificate programme that encompasses mastering the fundamentals of operating computers and digital devices for everyday tasks.

2. Internet Navigation and Research: The programme should include efficiently finding and evaluating information online using search engines and digital libraries.

3. Cybersecurity and Online Safety: It’s crucial to protect personal and sensitive information from digital threats and understand safe Internet practices.

4. Digital Communication and Social Media: Students should learn to utilise digital platforms for communication and networking while understanding their social impact.

5. Digital Content Creation and Editing: The curriculum should cover developing and refining digital content such as text, images, and videos for various platforms.

6. Data Literacy and Management: Understanding how to interpret, manage, and use data effectively in a digital environment is essential.

7. Software and Application Proficiency: Gaining expertise in using various software and applications for personal and professional purposes should be included.

8. Digital Ethics and Legal Issues: Navigating the moral and legal implications of digital actions and content is a critical skill.

9. Cloud Computing and Online Collaboration: Leveraging cloud-based tools for storage, collaboration, and remote working will be covered.

10.  E-Learning and Digital Education Tools: Utilising digital platforms and tools for educational purposes and self-guided learning is vital.

11.  Accessibility and Inclusivity in Digital Environments: Ensuring digital content and tools are accessible and inclusive for all users is necessary.

12.  Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving in Digital Contexts: Applying critical thinking to evaluate digital information and solve problems is a key skill.

13.  Digital Health and Wellness: Managing digital habits to promote mental and physical well-being is important.

14.  Emerging Technologies Awareness (AI, VR, etc.): Keeping abreast of the latest technologies like Artificial Intelligence and Virtual Reality and their applications.

15.  Digital Career and Entrepreneurship Skills: Harnessing digital tools and platforms for career development and entrepreneurial ventures is a part of the programme.

We should not contemplate educational reform without the inclusion of a comprehensive digital literacy program. The government has recognised digital skills as a fundamental component of its upcoming reforms. However, any reform lacking these 15 digital literacy areas at its foundation would substantially hinder our efforts in shaping well-rounded global citizens.

Why do I perceive this as urgent now? Recently, I’ve noticed an increasing digital divide. During my presentation, it became clear that while students are familiar with various digital concepts, they struggle to apply this knowledge in real-life scenarios. A structured digital literacy programme offering practical, hands-on experiences could effectively bridge this gap, thereby enhancing their theoretical understanding through real-world applications.

I’ve also observed significant disparities in students’ exposure to technology, largely due to varying levels of access at home. This discrepancy could lead to a new form of disenfranchisement if our schools continue to prioritise traditional, tangible learning tools over digital ones.

Our focus should be on preparing our youth for a new kind of literacy. Imagine a scenario where students submit their work through videos, presenting their research and findings on camera. While this might seem far-fetched now, I believe such practices could soon become commonplace, even in university submissions. 

Basic digital literacy skills are not just advantageous but essential for future employment and continued academic success, particularly in higher education where independent research and critical evaluation of information are paramount.

Steven Williams is the executive director of Sunisle Technology Solutions and the principal consultant at Data Privacy and Management Advisory Services. He is a former IT advisor to the Government’s Law Review Commission, focusing on the draft Cybercrime bill. He holds an MBA from the University of Durham and is certified as a chief information security officer by the EC Council and as a data protection officer by the Professional Evaluation and Certification Board (PECB). Steven can be reached at: Mobile: 246-233-0090 Email: steven@dataprivacy.bb