#digital-literacy

#digital-literacy

Snapchat has launched a new digital literacy program, called "The Keys," which aims to highlight the dangers of online interaction for young users, and better equip them with knowledge on how to protect themselves, and avoid problems in social apps. "Developed in collaboration with Common Sense Media, informed by safety experts, and reviewed by members of Snap's teen Council for Digital Well-Being, this program aims to educate teens about four key risks they may face online - bullying, illicit drug activity, nude and intimate images, and sextortion - and teaches platform-specific skills for helping to stay safe on Snapchat.

In that first lesson, I introduced students to the idea of becoming "de-tech-tives," a concept inspired by the late Dr. Jason Ohler's book, Digital Community, Digital Citizen, and shaped by the themes I learned from Dr. Pamela Rutledge, two professors I'd met while studying media psychology. On that first day, the students and I explored how people throughout history have adapted to new tools.

Fifteen years ago, being 'computer literate' meant you could navigate Windows or macOS with ease, troubleshoot a printer jam, and perhaps install new software without calling tech support. In 2025, that definition feels outdated. Today's digital workplace runs on applications, mobile devices, and increasingly, AI-powered platforms that handle much of the complexity behind the scenes. How to effectively and efficiently use the array of technologies businesses now employ, has become critical.

"We should always stay mute until our turn to talk," instructor Sakib Shikder told the class.

The ConnectALL Digital Equity Program Capacity Grant Request for Applications allows for over $5 million in funding to support internet access, broadband expansion, and digital equity initiatives throughout New York.

The Contra Costa County Library is partnering with Tech Exchange to offer drop-in tech support at three branches, beginning July 29. Tech Exchange will assist patrons with various technology needs, including Internet service sign-ups and navigating library computers.

The upcoming expiration of Microsoft Windows 10 support could lead to an estimated 400 million obsolete machines worldwide, significantly increasing e-waste.

Getting faculty to experiment with new technology or pedagogy requires a supportive campus culture, group problem-solving, and empowerment to encourage innovation.

"When Teen Techies started in 2005, we could not have imagined the giant leaps technology would take: the proliferation of social media, smart phones, cloud computing, AI and so much more," said Linda E. Johnson, president and chief executive officer of Brooklyn Public Library.

It's like arguing over the age kids can use a community swimming pool-but not bothering to teach them how to swim.

The Brooklyn Public Library's Digital Discovery Day aims to connect residents with technology, offering resources for all ages and levels of tech comfort.

As we have witnessed over the past four years, government control of information resulted into hyper-partisan education for children and the stifling of viewpoints online that do not comport with leftist ideology.

Switching to greyscale and spending time pruning your algorithm can significantly improve one's digital media consumption, enabling better control over online habits.