INFORMATION AND DIGITAL LITERACY refers to the ability to effectively find, evaluate, use, and communicate information using various digital technologies. In today’s digital age, where information is readily available at our fingertips, it’s important to have the skills to navigate and use this information effectively.
INFORMATION LITERACY involves understanding the nature of information and how to access it, critically evaluating its credibility and relevance, and using it ethically and responsibly. DIGITAL LITERACY, on the other hand, involves the ability to use digital technologies effectively, including basic computer skills, online communication, and digital media creation.
TOGETHER, information and digital literacy enable individuals to effectively participate in and contribute to today’s digital society, whether it’s in the classroom, the workplace, or in their personal lives.
The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education released the new Digital Literacy & Computer in June 2016 in collaboration with the Massachusetts Computing Attainment Network (MassCAN) and Massachusetts Computer Using Educators (MassCUE). This framework replaced the 2008 standards.
In 2009, the Massachusetts School Library Association released their Recommended Standards for PreK-12 Information Literacy Skills. In 2016, the American Association of School Libraries (AASL) released the AASL Standards Integrated Framework featured within the National School Library Standards. Our district has worked with extending our understanding of the Massachusetts Recommended Standards with the AASL Standard Framework for Learners to provide a more comprehensive approach to teaching and learning by making the connection between Information Literacy and other subject areas.
Concurrently, the International Society of Technology Educators (ISTE) released their ISTE Standards: Students in 2016. Recognizing the connection between Information and Digital Literacy, ISTE and the AASL combined their efforts to create a crosswalk of the National School Library Standards and ISTE Standards for Students and Educators. This comprehensive document helps us to lead our schools with Information and Digital Literacy Skills for all.