The Government of Canada recognizes that digital skills help us keep up with changing demands in the modern workplace and in daily life. The Skills for Success framework (previously called Essential Skills) consists of nine skills. Digital skills help people find, manage, apply, create and share information and content. With the right resources, we can learn new digital skills to improve both our work and home lives. To help support this essential skill, we have gathered resources on digital literacy.

“Most jobs now use digital skills, and you need them when you apply other skills such as reading, writing and numeracy.” Skills for Success

The video below offers an introduction to digital skills.

There are many benefits to learning or improving digital literacy skills. They can improve productivity by allowing employees to complete tasks more efficiently by automating processes that were previously manual. Digital literacy increases access to information and resources by enabling employees to research and gather data quickly and effectively, and allowing them to stay up-to-date with industry trends. Having strong digital literacy skills proves one’s adaptability to ever-changing modern technology.

“As technology continues to permeate every aspect of our lives, understanding how to use digital tools and platforms effectively is essential for employees and businesses alike.” – PMS Consulting

In British Columbia, the BC Digital Literacy Framework is now part of the revised BC Curriculum for school-aged children. This framework can be adapted for adult learners. It includes both practical and conceptual skills. The framework consists of six components.

6 Components of the BC Digital Literacy Framework

1. Research and Information Literacy. Applying digital tools to gather, evaluate and use information
2. Critical Thinking, Problem Solving and Decision Making. Using critical thinking skills to plan and conduct research, manage projects, solve problems and make informed decisions using appropriate digital tools and resources
3. Creativity and Innovation. Demonstrating creative thinking, constructing knowledge and developing innovative products and processes using technology
4. Digital Citizenship. Understanding human, cultural and societal issues related to technology and practice legal and ethical behaviour
5. Communication and Collaboration. Using digital media and environments to communicate and work collaboratively, including at a distance, to support individual learning and contribute to the learning of others
6. Technology Operations and Concepts. Demonstrating a sound understanding of technology concepts, systems and operations

For more information on teaching digital skills, check out the resources below.

Resources

• Building a Digitally Skilled Workforce: Insights From Canadian Employers and Skills Leaders
• Establishing A Common Framework For Digital Skills in Canada: Recommendations Report
• Helping Adult ELLs Develop Digital Literacy and Resilience: Strategies for Teachers
• Literacy Connects Us at Work: Digital Literacy
• Skills for Success: Digital
• UP Skills for Work – Get Started: Digital
• • Online workbook: Digital (hard copy is available to borrow from the library)
  • Video: Improve your digital skills