One thing is certain: Technological advancements will continue to shape every aspect of life. If students aren’t up to speed, it could very well set them apart from the competition—and not in a good way.
According to learning.com, an online curriculum provider, there are six digital skills that every K12 student must learn:
- Computer fundamentals: This ranges from the basic understanding of how a computer works to the identification and proper use of hardware and software.
- Keyboarding: An essential component of digital skills, keyboarding is required for some of the most basic forms of communication in the professional world.
- Computational thinking: Students should learn how to take a problem-solving approach to complex tasks by breaking them down into smaller parts and identifying a sequence of steps to achieve a particular goal.
- Word processing, spreadsheets and presentations: These are some of the most common tools used in both the education sphere and professional settings, according to learning.com. While the software programs may vary, the core knowledge and processes stay the same.
- Internet use and communications: While we can bet that most students nowadays have already mastered this skill, schools must ensure that children know how to navigate and use the internet effectively, such as being able to fact-check and verify information.
- Digital citizenship: This includes being able to handle personal safety and privacy, such as avoiding online threats and harassment and understanding how to respond in this situation.
But just how important are these skills to employers? Needless to say, schools must continue to convey the importance of digital literacy to their students.
According to a new report from the National Skills Coalition, an organization that seeks inclusive and high-quality skills training for all, a record 92% of jobs require “definitely digital” or “likely digital” skills. Their definition of digital skills includes having knowledge of email, simple spreadsheets, data entry, timecard software, or other industry-specific skills like bookkeeping through various electronic mediums.
Across all industries, nearly half (47%) of all jobs “definitely require digital skills,” according to the report. Only 8% of all jobs do not, further exacerbating the need to ensure students are digitally literate and career-ready.
“Workforce and education advocates and providers can support this goal (of an equitable digital skill foundation) by speaking up for digital equity investments that support workers’ goals and aspirations and respond to local businesses’ skill needs,” the report reads.”Workforce and education advocates and providers can encourage policymakers to embed digital problem-solving skills as allowable or required activities under existing workforce development, adult education, and higher education policies, as well as digital equity policies.”
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