Digital literacy for teachers
Digital literacy for teachers
Digital technology can help teachers address the challenges and opportunities presented by teaching in the 21st century. Teachers are using digital technology in teaching, learning and assessment, to support individual learners and to manage their own workload. However, if teachers are not supported to develop their own ‘digital literacy’ the promise of digital technology risks becoming yet another thing on an increasingly long to do list.
Key digital skills
This list sets out the key digital skills that teachers will need to take maximum benefit from digital technology in a way that helps rather than hinders them in their work.
Teachers can only make effective use of digital technology within an effectively managed ‘digital school’ where the use of technology aligns with the school’s vision, it is well led with processes and policies in place to ensure teachers are supported to use technology effectively and securely. Schools will have adopted their own solutions to managing learning, the use of specific technologies such as AI, school administration and communications, with policies on security and privacy. It is the role of the leadership of the school’s digital strategy to ensure teachers have the specific skills to use these solutions inline with the school’s policies and procedures.
Teachers should carefully consider the alignment between pedagogical approaches and the selection of digital tools. For instance, Skinner's drill and practice method may be well-suited to certain digital platforms, while Vygotsky's emphasis on discussion forums may require different technologies. It's essential to evaluate the appropriateness of digital tools based on learning outcomes and teaching strategies.
Teachers must be vigilant about the data shared with digital systems. For example, understanding the type of data provided to AI is crucial for safeguarding student information. Additionally, teachers should know how to report any privacy or security concerns related to the digital platforms used in schools.
The aim of this document is that teachers become empowered users of digital technology. Encouraging teachers to develop positive attitudes towards digital technology and to seek support when facing technological challenges is essential. Schools should foster a culture of problem-solving and collaboration to address technical issues effectively, ensuring that teachers feel supported in integrating technology into their teaching practices.
Digital literacy review checklist for teachers
Looking for support in reviewing the digital literacy of teachers in your school? Take a look at Computing at School's (CAS) digital literacy checklist that you can easily copy and share with your colleagues so they can self-assess their digital skills, which will help you plan CPD for your staff.
