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When we think of literacy, we think of the ability to read and write for enjoyment or to communicate. So, then, what does this mean when we use technology to develop our digital literacy in the digital world? That is a very good question! Let's find out!
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Before we can get and use any information from a book, we have to know where to go to get the book. Is it in our home, our classroom, or at the public library? That seems like a silly thing to say, doesn't it, but it's true! If we can't find the book we want that has the information we need, then the book is of no use to us at all, and we are stuck without getting the information.
Well, to get and use any information from technology like a computer or tablet, we have to know HOW to get that information. Just like we have to know how to look up information in a book, we have to know how to find the information we need using a computer or other technology device. So, where do we start?
Well, to get and use any information from technology like a computer or tablet, we have to know HOW to get that information. Just like we have to know how to look up information in a book, we have to know how to find the information we need using a computer or other technology device. So, where do we start?
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Sci Show Kids. (2016, December 5). How Do Computers Work? #CSforAll. [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/P2Fc0Aj_u58
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Knowing the parts to a computer and their functions is where we take our first steps to becoming digitally literate. The next step to take to become fluent in digital literacy is to learn how to find the information you want. Let's start with three of the most important things you need to know about when looking up information on a computer, laptop, or smartphone. The first is a browser, the second is the search engine, the third is the website itself.
In our first video, we learned about the parts of the computer and what they do. The most important part of the computer you will be using to find your information, however, is your mouse. The mouse lets you type information into the browser by clicking in the browser or search engine, so it's important that you know how to use it properly. Below is more important information you need to know about your computer mouse!
What is a computer mouse? How is it used? Is it....
Nope, not this one!
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Yes, you guessed it! It's this one!
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How does a mouse work? Many computers have a mouse, just like this, that plugs into your computer. It has two buttons, a left button and a right button. It also has a little rubber ball underneath that allows it to roll back and forth on your table or desk. You just move the mouse to where you want it to go. You can follow the arrow on your computer screen that tells you where the mouse is pointing. Once you find the place on your computer screen that you want to go, you just press the left button and then either type in your information or go to the website you want to visit. If you are working on a laptop, there is a mouse pad right under the space bar. You just use your finger to guide the arrow where you want to go and press on the mouse pad one or two times, and the computer will take you where you want to go It's just that simple! Easy, peasy, lemon squeezy as we like to say!! Check out this short video to learn the basics of getting to know your mouse!
Brentwood School Technology Center. (2019, August 22). Using Your Computer Mouse (for Kids). [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/TgZZTuwB7cw
There is one more VERY IMPORTANT part of Digital Literacy. It is not only important to know how to use a computer to find the information we want or need, we must ALWAYS work with a grown-up and follow the rules for Safety while working online. Not every website out there is kid friendly, so it's SUPER IMPORTANT to get permission from your parents or teacher before visiting any websites and NEVER give out your password or personal information!
Digital Literacy goes hand in hand with Digital Safety
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Indiana University of Pennsylvania. (2011, May 17). Internet Safety for Kids K-3. [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/89eCHtFs0XM
Resources For Parents
Media and Digital Literacy: Resources for Parents Click on this article published by Edutopia to learn more about resources for families of children growing up in a Digital World. The article has links to explore additional information on children's cell phone use, privacy, parent guides to YouTube, and information on 10 things children learn from video games that parents never knew. It also contains more information about internet safety.
Digital Literacy for Parents and Children: A parents guide to Digital Literacy
By Oomar Mauthoor
This article has information for parents about helping your child become digitally literate in addition to some suggested guidelines and recommendations for being online. Additional links to information are included in the article.
K-2 Resources: Digital Literacy: From the Florida Dept. of Education
This is an amazing website that provides a wealth of text information and 27 links to additional websites on multiple aspects of Digital Literacy, as well as Digital Safety. Included in these 27 links are five links to webcams where students can explore the wonders of an earth cam, zoo and aquarium cams, as well as watch alligators in swamps! This website is a must see!
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Digital Citizenship by Sherri Farnan is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.