Importance of Communicating Technical and Digital Literacy Expectations

Specifying the necessary technical and digital literacy skills supports effective learning, increases accessibility and inclusivity, facilitates smooth course operations, and aligns with established quality standards like those of Quality Matters. It also ensures that all students are adequately prepared before the course begins. This preparation helps avoid situations where students struggle with basic functionalities instead of focusing on course content. 

By knowing these requirements upfront, students can seek out resources or training prior to starting the course, ensuring they are ready to engage fully from day one. Including links to resources and training that are available to students in the same section will be helpful. 

Steps to Take

• Review your course and take note of any actions the student will need to take to participate in the course.

• Describe the technical skills students will need to be successful in this course, such as the ability to locate, evaluate, and use information through technology, install and use webcams, microphones, conference software, etc.

• Include what expectations you have regarding their digital information literacy skills, like accessing their Boise State inbox and receiving/sending email messages,  upload files, install software, netiquette, using multimedia and collaborative tools, etc. 

• Add the required skills to your syllabus or under Course Resources in the course shell in a dedicated section. 

Example

Below is an example of technical skills and digital literacy expectations. It includes a section on Resources for Skills Development, that gives students an opportunity to brush up on their skills before or during the course. 

Course: Introduction to Online Research Methods

Expected Technical Skills and Digital Literacy:

• Basic Computer Skills: Proficiency in using Windows or macOS, including installing applications, managing files, and basic troubleshooting.

• Productivity Software: Ability to use Microsoft Office Suite or Google Workspace for document creation, data analysis in spreadsheets, and presentation preparation.

• Internet and Research Skills: Competence in navigating the web, using academic databases, and evaluating the credibility of online sources.

• Digital Communication: Familiarity with using the university's learning management system (Canvas), participating in discussion forums, and utilizing email and video conferencing tools for communication.

• Information Literacy: Skills in locating, evaluating, and synthesizing information from a variety of digital and print sources to support research projects.

Resources for Skill Development:

• Boise State University offers workshops on basic computer skills and productivity software through the Office of Information Technology. 

• The Boise State University library conducts sessions on information literacy and effective research methods. Schedule and registration details can be found on the library's website.

• Online tutorials for using Canvas are available, designed to help navigate and utilize the platform effectively.