Which digital skills are important for children?

Digital skills are becoming more important every day – for working at home, at school, or on the job.

The quality of life for the majority of the world’s population would be worse without basic digital knowledge.

Therefore, access to digital technology and the digital skills needed to utilize all of the possibilities technology offers are important.

The ALL DIGITAL Weeks 2024 takes place between May 13 and 31. It is a European campaign; in Slovenia, it is organized by Simbioza. During this event, Europeans learn about the importance of digital skills. Among them are:

• digital media literacy and misinformation,
• cyber security and a safer internet, and
• digital skills for the environment and sustainability.

Teachers in some elementary schools in Slovenia are already using digital technology, thus strengthening students’ digital skills.

Among them is Časoris’  Tršica Nina.

The use of technology in lessons does not mean, says Nina Jelen, that children spend most of their time on devices. This is just one part of everything they do in school.

Like it or not, digital technology is here. It is our responsibility to teach students how to use it properly. If you teach with technology as an aid, you can also make students aware of the pitfalls and dangers.

Nina Jelen

Ana Pleško, director of Simbioza Genesis, also agrees that elementary school students need more key digital competencies.

Children need basic computer skills to use the Internet safely and effectively, including knowledge of online etiquette, digital communication, and programming basics. 

Ana Pleško

There is also an understanding of the concept of digital citizenship, which, as she says, mainly refers to the awareness of the importance of personal data protection.

The most active steps towards digital transformation can be taken in primary school.

Ana Pleško

Points to Consider

1. Do you use digital technology at school?
2. Where are you learning your digital skills?
3. Can you name some of the dangers of digital technology?

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The original version of this article was published on 24^th May.