Digital Literacy

Digital Literacy is part of the curriculum in Years 7 to 9 and is being able to interact effectively and safely with the digital world.

Someone with good digital literacy can make informed decisions and act on the vast amounts of data that is available. They can communicate rapidly with a large audience. They can influence the whole world.

 

In Year 7 we start with IT User Fundamentals to ensure they can use school systems safely, as well as introducing them to the school's Digital Badges. We then move on to Document Creation where they gain a solid foundation in using Microsoft Word. Next we look at Online Research, understanding how to research effectively using search engines, AI chatbots, and their own survey forms. The year rounds off with an Introduction to Data Analysis that gets them started on using Microsoft Excel to present data.

 

Year 8 begins with Graphic Design. This flows into discussion of Legal Matters around the use of digital technology. Then we return to Microsoft Word for More Document Creation where they learn more advanced techniques. More Data Analysis pushes their ability to use Microsoft Excel to interpret data. Finally, Intro to Presentations has them making effective use of Microsoft Powerpoint.

 

Year 9 create and explore their own worlds through 3D design. Then Advanced Data Analysis brings in powerful data analysis tools as well as mail merges. We finish off the teaching with More on Presentations which blends Microsoft Powerpoint and video editing software. Then in teams they have to use everything they've learned to analyse a real-world problem for a client and present their proposed solution.

 

Every year has a six-lesson course on Digital Citizenship which covers topics such as de-escalating online drama, finding credible news articles, balancing in-person and digital life, how companies use our data, and digital footprints. We also work on touch typing and the Inspiring Digital Enterprise Awards throughout.

 

Everything is related to real-life examples. Examples in Year 7 include composing a job application email, writing a CV, conducting a survey on school lunches, and doing calculations for a tax return.