There is no denying that technology is fast developing and that this transformation in our lives, jobs, and communication has necessitated the development of a new set of knowledge and abilities known as digital citizenship and literacy.
Digital citizenship is the responsible and ethical use of digital technologies, which includes how people engage with online communities, social media, and other digital platforms. It entails understanding and putting into action proper, safe, and polite online activities.
Digital literacy, on the other hand, refers to the ability to use digital technology effectively. It includes a wide variety of abilities, from simple online navigation to problem-solving in the digital world. It refers to the ability to protect personal information online, reduce the threats posed by cyber-attacks or other online threats, and make responsible, informed and lawful use of information and media.
Digital Citizenship vs. Digital Literacy
Digital citizenship is like the structure, whereas digital literacy is like the foundation of a house. More specifically, digital citizenship teaches people how to use their digital abilities ethically and responsibly, while digital literacy gives people the knowledge they need to steer the digital world.
Elements Of Digital Citizenship And Literacy
There are several elements of Digital Citizenship and Literacy, and they include;
- Digital Access: It is being able to fully engage in a digital society, it ensures that everyone has access to technology, including internet-connected computers and digital learning resources to close the digital divide. Poor digital access harms a person’s ability to learn, develop their abilities, and go to school.
- Digital Communication: It is an idea of digital citizenship that relates with others or a unique audience by using online tools like email, social media messaging, and texting to exchange information, share views, etc.
- Digital Etiquette: Online behaviour is positively influenced by digital manners when interacting with online material. To encourage helpful communication and collaboration, it is vital to always maintain a professional and safe learning environment online.
- Digital Law: These rules serve as safeguards against abuse and harassment of users. In terms of ethics, it is described as electronic accountability for actions and deeds that lay forth the proper and improper ways to use the Internet. The proper citation of sources, reading and adhering to the terms of use for any references, files, software, etc. that you use are examples of ethical Internet usage. Hacking, using pirated software, downloading content illegally, plagiarising content, and other unethical Internet usage practices are a few examples.
- Digital Rights & Responsibility: Access to digital tools comes with great responsibilities, ensuring all users are accountable for their online behaviour.
- Digital Security and Privacy: Security awareness and training can help prevent viruses, malware attacks, and other security breaches. Protect personal information by monitoring both device and digital tool access.
THE IMPORTANCE OF DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP AND LITERACY
- Empowerment: People with digital literacy have more access to resources, opportunities, and knowledge. It provides equal access to knowledge and education, levelling the playing field.
- Social Responsibility: Digital citizenship supports credible online conduct, and fosters tolerance, admiration, and tolerance while thwarting hate speech and cyber-bullying.People have the power to obtain, create, and distribute a variation of credible information.
- Cybersecurity: Understanding the fundamentals of digital citizenship enables people to employ security solutions like firewalls, antivirus software, and two-factor authentication to secure their digital assets and defend themselves against online attacks. A person’s understanding of the value of protecting their online information and the dangers of cyber attacks is encouraged by their level of digital literacy.
- Global Connectivity: Digital literacy unites people all over the world, building global awareness and alliance.
- Privacy Protection: Individuals can protect their online privacy by being aware of digital citizenship, which reduces the risk of identity theft and data breaches. Individuals must maintain their privacy to protect their personal information and data, and security measures help to keep them safe.
- Critical Thinking: Digital literacy stimulates critical thinking abilities that assist people in navigating the digital world and screen out difficult and irrelevant materials in an era of information overload. It lets people differentiate reliable information from inaccurate information, make informed decisions, and generate their thoughts and viewpoints.
- Lifelong Learning: Given that it is a skill that is always changing, digital literacy offers countless opportunities for lifelong learning and development. Additionally, it enables people to adopt new technologies and helps virtualization become a permanent asset.
CONCLUSION
Digital literacy and citizenship are no longer elective proficiency in our ever-fast and changing digital environment; rather, they serve as the road map for interacting with the online world. They enable people to move around the digital world skillfully, safely, and responsibly.
These ideas are necessary for personal development and empowerment, as well as for the health of our society as a whole. They assure personal safety, and adept success, and help foster a more responsible and inclusive online community.
Embracing the values of digital citizenship and literacy equips people to use digital opportunities wisely and prosper in the digital age.
RESEARCHED BY: OLUKOTUN JOAN.
