• Digital Navigators Group

  Navigator digital skills vs introducing the concepts of systemic change?

  Posted by DrRon Suarez on October 10, 2023 at 11:07 am

  Chat GPT4: Programs for digital navigators should aim to equip individuals with both tangible digital skills and a broader understanding of systemic change. Balancing the two is crucial, as it provides learners with immediate utility while also fostering long-term critical thinking and advocacy. Here’s how such programs might approach this balance:

  1. Layered Curriculum Approach:

  • Foundation Level (Digital Skills):

    • Start with basic digital literacy skills: browsing the Internet, using email, and understanding digital security.
    • Introduce commonly used software and platforms based on the audience’s needs, such as word processors, social media, online banking, or telehealth platforms.

  • Intermediate Level (Exploring Systemic Issues):

    • Delve into topics like the digital divide, digital equity, and the importance of open access.
    • Discuss the societal and economic implications of unequal access, touching on topics like online job markets, e-governance, and digital entrepreneurship.

  • Advanced Level (Promotion of Systemic Change):

    • Foster a deep understanding of the systemic factors contributing to digital inequities, such as ISP monopolies, lack of infrastructure investment in certain areas, and policies affecting net neutrality.
    • Equip learners with advocacy and community organizing skills, enabling them to champion systemic solutions in their communities.

  2. Experiential Learning:

  • Combine classroom-based instruction with hands-on experiences. For instance, after teaching basic digital skills, engage learners in projects or discussions that highlight the systemic challenges faced by underconnected communities.

  3. Real-world Application:

  • Encourage learners to apply their digital skills in community projects. This not only reinforces their skills but also provides context for understanding the broader systemic issues at play.

  4. Empowerment through Knowledge:

  • Shift the narrative from simply “learning a skill” to “becoming an empowered digital citizen.” This holistic view can motivate learners to both apply their skills and advocate for broader change.

  5. Collaborative Learning:

  • Encourage group discussions and debates on digital equity topics. Peer learning can provide diverse perspectives on systemic issues, fostering a richer understanding.

  6. Global Perspectives:

  • Introduce case studies from around the world to highlight how different regions or countries are tackling digital equity. This can inspire ideas for systemic change and showcase the global nature of the challenge.

  7. Continuous Feedback and Iteration:

  • Solicit feedback from learners to understand which parts of the curriculum resonate most. This can help in refining the balance between skill acquisition and systemic understanding over time.

  In essence, the aim should be to provide immediate value through tangible digital skills while simultaneously fostering a broader perspective on systemic change. This dual approach not only empowers individuals in the digital realm but also equips them to become advocates for more equitable digital futures.

  DrRon Suarez replied 7 months ago 1 Member · 0 Replies

  • Systemic Change
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