Digital Literacy Initiative Information Technology has begun work on a new project, the Digital Literacy Initiative. Spearheaded by Instruction and Research Technology, the goal is to encourage Digital Literacy skills across the University. We believe that WPU students can become more informed and agile technology users as they progress through their programs, and that this will help them be successful in the ever-changing world of work they will navigate throughout their careers. This initiative is founded on an updated definition of Digital Literacy, based not on specific skills, but on problem-solving and the ability for our students to be self-directed, lifelong learners who can keep current as technology changes throughout their lives and careers. Rather than focusing on skill-based technology training (i.e. learning to use Excel), which was standard 15-20 years ago, this initiative will work to equip students with the skills to solve problems using technology in creative ways, and to instilling in them an interest in self-directed learning so they can easily adapt to technologies not yet in existence. Last November IRT Director, Gamin Bartle, gave a presentation called "Beyond Apps: What Our Students Really Need to Know about Technology" for the Center for Teaching Excellence. In this presentation, she outlined the fundamental ideas behind the nascent Digital Literacy Initiative. If you have any questions or would like to be included in the next Digital Literacy Initiative meeting or other activities, please email IRT Director Gamin Bartle at bartleg@wpunj.edu. Students, faculty and staff are all welcome to join in the planning and activities. April 18, 2018
