What Digital Skills Should We Be Teaching In Our Classrooms?

Technology is everywhere. We have complex computers in our pockets in the form of smart phones, high-speed internet connections available almost everywhere and digital assistants to help with almost every facet of life. Which means the way the modern classroom is educating the next generation is also transforming. We now live in an era where both educators and students are surrounded by digital mediums and teachers need to create new curriculum and strategies for their students.

Cutting-edge learning solutions such as artificial intelligence, bite-sized learning apps, and virtual reality technologies are fast becoming the social norm. This blog has been designed to assist educators in embracing these technologies and using them in the modern classroom to educate the leaders of tomorrow.

Harnessing Digital Tools for Problem-Solving

The first important step is to assert the role of technology in the classroom. Simply trying to train students on how to use the myriad machines, platforms, apps and systems can rapidly become confusing for both educators and students.

The key is to use technology in the role of problem solving. Show kids how they can use computers and apps to complete a range of different tasks, like resize an image or create their own digital avatar for adding an interactive element to their next presentation.

By presenting a problem to students, teachers can then position the relevant technology as the solution to that problem. This form of education has a range of benefits, including building problem-solving skills in tandem with interactive learning with digital technologies.

The data produced by technology is also a valuable tool for teachers to determine the development levels of each student. Virtual simulations can identify which students are adopting new technologies rapidly and which ones are struggling. Instead of simply trying to help students better understand technology, teachers can also identify problem-solving development shortfalls and develop strategies to assist with this as well.

The Art of Crafting Engaging Visuals

Visual learning is more important than ever before in a world where students are flocking to platforms like Instagram and Pinterest in record numbers to create, share and engage with visual mediums.

These platforms are a modern paintbox for students along with being a tool for creative storytelling that can unlock their imagination and creativity.

Teachers can now identify students who may communicate better through these visuals and help foster these skills. Digital platforms that focus on visual creativity can unlock personal expression in students who may otherwise struggle through traditional means.

There is a raft of different career paths available for students who develop strong storytelling skills in visual mediums, making this a vital element to teach in today’s classroom.

Cultivating Digital Creativity

The digital technologies of today and tomorrow offer more than just simple functionality. Previously, technology was about operating a machine to complete a task, simple, cold and calculating.

Modern technologies can not be viewed in the same way. The interaction and connection available through digital mediums unlock a child’s creativity which can be transformed into vital skills for their future careers.

Teachers need to be using these digital mediums to encourage exploration, promote innovative thinking, and celebrate individual achievement. To accomplish this, educators need to first understand how these technologies can unlock their own creative side.

Leading by example has become more important than ever. Expressing yourself using digital means will show students that there is much more to modern technology than simple, cold functionality.

Embracing Digital Leadership

It is no secret that the world is more connected than ever before, which unlocks tremendous new leadership opportunities in learning environments. Students are no longer confined by the constraints of their classroom size, they can connect to real people, real leaders and real future employers through digital means while they are learning.

This scope is enormous. For educators, embodying digital leadership is crucial. Teaching students how to use modern technologies is one thing, but showing them how to leverage it to reach real humans and become real leaders in cyberspace is a new teaching reality.

For decades, technology has been about consumption. Now, it can be used for creation, collaboration, and advocacy. Guiding students on how they can safely and ethically navigate the modern internet will help mould them into the leaders of tomorrow.

Integrating Digital Skills Across Pedagogical Areas

A well-rounded education necessitates the integration of digital skills across all learning areas. It’s more and more popular, this cross-curricular way of integrating the development of digital skills. And this is very helpful and impactful.

Digital competence goes beyond mere technical proficiency. It’s a comprehensive amalgamation of skills, knowledge, attitudes, and essential education components that contribute to professional growth and civic participation.

The European Framework for the Digital Competence of Educators (DigCompEdu) offers valuable insights into fostering digital competence. It outlines 22 competencies across six areas, covering various aspects of digital competence, from selecting digital resources and managing digital content to enabling learners to responsibly use digital technologies.

When educators weave digital skills into various subjects, they empower students to navigate the digital realm with confidence and proficiency. This equips them with essential skills for the 21st century. Furthermore, these abilities are pivotal in building a digital community that is inclusive and diverse, ensuring every student feels seen and heard.

With materials for honing these foundational skills being integrated into classrooms across the globe, it’s safe to say that emerging generations will be able to utilize technology in new and innovative ways across a wide array of different sectors and industry contexts. And all of this innovation undoubtedly starts with the first steps taken by our tireless teachers and energetic educators. So stay agile and stay connected!