Unlocking the code to digital literacy

Digital literacy was originally conceptualized as “the ability to understand and use information in multiple formats from a wide range of sources when it is presented via computers” (Glister, 1997). It has evolved to incorporate elements derived from other terms such as information literacy and media literacy and is used to describe anything related to technology. It is interchanged with behaviours, understanding of how technology works, and the role of technology in our daily lives. There is an understanding that if you are ‘digitally literate’ you know how to ‘use technology’; not unreasonable given the widespread use of smartphones, tablets and other devices in our communities. But is this sufficient to prepare students for the demands of a university education and graduate employment?