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1.1 What Is Digital Literacy?

Being digitally literate also means acquiring the skills to search, understand, and evaluate the
tremendous amount of data available. You must interpret the data so as to create new infor-
mation and know when it is appropriate (and inappropriate) to share this information with
others. Finally, being digitally literate means knowing how to use what you learn to become
a productive and ethical citizen of the digital world. We will take an in-depth look at digital
citizenship in Module 4.

Technology changes quickly in today’s world. It is easy to become comfortable with what
you already know and then suddenly realize that technology has passed you by. For example,
early computers were not easy to operate, and they did not come with instruction manuals.
Using them could be so frustrating that many people resisted giving up their typewriters.
Those who were willing to learn to use a computer found themselves with valuable skills as
computers grew more and more popular. Those who refused to give up their typewriters, on
the other hand, were left behind as the digital age progressed.

Digital literacy helps you adapt to change and modify your tools and behaviors as necessary—
to become someone who is not afraid of technology but embraces the tools that can provide
new opportunities. This book is designed to help you become comfortable with change, be
patient while you learn, and get excited about participating in the digital revolution.

Perhaps you are like Chantal and had never used a computer prior to enrolling at Ashford. If
so, the technology may seem overwhelming at first. But remember, you do not have to master
the computer; you must simply learn the basics necessary for your class. Other features can
be learned over time, and you have instructors, fellow classmates, and technical support staff
to help you. Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance if you face a problem you cannot resolve. Oth-
ers will be happy to share their knowledge and help you succeed.

With increased knowledge and skill come power and self-confidence. As you learn more in
this text about digital literacy and the tools and support available to you, we hope you will
also feel less anxious because you know that, with hard work and the support of your Ashford
University community, you can complete your college degree and embark on a meaningful
and satisfying career.

In Alan Cooper’s (1999) book The Inmates Are Running the Asylum, he concluded that digital
literacy really means that “when your program loses your document, you have learned enough
not to panic” (p. 35). With this type of power and confidence as our goal, let’s look at some of
the ways technology has transformed how we learn, work, and live. As you read through the
following sections, reflect on your own attitude toward technology. Do you eagerly embrace
new technology, or are you hesitant to try something new? Why do you feel the way you do?

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