Digital literacies in the classroom

    Digital literacy is a relevant topic because technology is changing faster than ever. For this reason it is significant to have the right competencies to enhance knowledge in society. According Hockley 'digital literacies refer to our ability to effectively make use of the technologies at our disposal' Hockely,N. (2013). This means the effective usage, knowledge and 
skills of digital devices for purposes of communication, expression, collaboration and creativity. This picture shows what we teach when dealing with digital literacy:

   

       We can divide digital literacies into four categories according to Hockly (2013). The ones that centers on: 

Information: the ability of not only finding the information but also assessing it.

Language: The incorporaron of both print literacies and texting literacies. 

Connections: It not only reflects personal identity but also it is a resourse for socializing. 

(re)design: The re creation of media into a renovated and shocking one.

   
     But why is it necessary for schools to teach digital literacy? When used in ways that intensifies learning, new technologies can help students develop and practice different skills. Most teachers believe that children are naturally skilled in using technology since they have been in contact with it from a very young age. Besides this technology can be used to motivate students due to the fact that they can enjoy it. Furthermore, it reaches students of various learning styles and allows them to create and design their own outcome which reflects their personalities and learning needs as well as giving students the chance to study technology which increases job opportunities.

   

    In addition to this, the teacher's job is important to have a close-up relation with digital technology in order to prepare students to excel not just in school, but also in the future workplace and throughout their lives. As teachers, we need to carefully think of which technological tools should be used in the classroom in engaging and original ways to improve student learning. It is also important to  provide students with authentic learning opportunities that are enhanced through digital technologies. 

   

    Finally, the goal of all teachers is to promote critical and innovative thinking and collaborative work in their students. Incorporating Digital Literacies into lessons can avoid the traditional face to face classroom relationship and through this teachers can ease their student's construction of knowledge and meaning.

    In our opinion, students should be encouraged to use digitial tools in the classroom since technology is part of their daily life. The implementation of thechnology enhace students skills in many senses and also can help them in their futures, for example when trying to find a job. Undoubtedly, also teachers need to be well trained in order to be prepared to incorporate technology in the classroom and help students to use it appropiately for educational purposes.

References: 

- Hockly, N. (2013) "Digital Literacies: What are they and why should we care"