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One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchDigital literacy is the ability to use digital technologies confidently, critically, safely, and effectively: to find and evaluate information, communicate, create content, protect yourself, and solve everyday problems. It is broader than knowing how to operate a particular phone, computer, or app.
What is digital literacy?
UNESCO defines digital literacy as “the ability to access, manage, understand, integrate, communicate, evaluate and create information safely and appropriately through digital devices and networked technologies for participation in economic and social life” (UNESCO Institute for Statistics glossary). In plain language, it means using technology to find, judge, manage, communicate, and create information—and to complete real tasks—while making informed choices about safety and reliability.
There is no single definition or universal checklist. Organizations use different terms and frameworks for different purposes. The common thread is that digital literacy involves more than operating a device: it includes critical judgment, responsible participation, and adapting technology to a task.
What are digital literacy skills?
The European Commission’s DigComp framework groups digital competence into five areas. It is a useful citizen-oriented map, not the only possible taxonomy; UNESCO’s global framework, for example, uses seven competence areas.
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| DigComp area | What it means in practice |
|---|---|
| Information and data literacy | Search for information, assess whether it is trustworthy and relevant, and organize or manage files and data. |
| Communication and collaboration | Choose suitable ways to communicate, share information responsibly, and work with others online. |
| Digital content creation | Create and edit digital material, manage files, and understand basic issues such as attribution and reuse. |
| Safety | Protect devices, accounts, personal information, privacy, and wellbeing when using digital services. |
| Problem-solving | Select appropriate tools, address common technical problems, and learn new tools as needs change. |
These categories are set out in the European Commission’s DigComp framework and its DigComp 2.2 publication. They are useful prompts for learning and self-assessment, rather than proof that a person is either digitally literate or not.
Examples in everyday life
- Checking who published a claim, when it was published, and whether reliable sources support it before sharing.
- Sending a clear email, joining a video meeting, or sharing a file with the right people and permissions.
- Creating a document or presentation, then saving it somewhere you can find and access again.
- Using strong account protections and recognizing suspicious links or requests for personal information.
- Choosing an appropriate app or service for a task and troubleshooting when a device, connection, or file does not behave as expected.
How do digital literacy frameworks differ?
Frameworks organize skills for particular audiences and goals. They are reference tools, not interchangeable courses or certificates.
| Framework | Audience and purpose | Structure |
|---|---|---|
| European Commission DigComp | Citizens; a reference for policy, curriculum, learning outcomes, and assessment. | Five competence areas: information and data literacy, communication and collaboration, digital content creation, safety, and problem-solving. (European Commission) |
| UNESCO Global Framework of Reference for Digital Literacy Skills | Developed to support measurement for Sustainable Development Goal 4, indicator 4.4.2. | Seven competence areas. The framework was based on a review of more than 40 existing digital literacy frameworks; that figure counts frameworks reviewed, not people’s skills or course outcomes. (UNESCO Institute for Statistics, 2018) |
| UNESCO ICT Competency Framework for Teachers | Teachers and those planning teacher training or instruction. | Teacher-focused professional competencies, with related training resources. (UNESCO) |
UNESCO’s 2023 Global Education Monitoring report notes that definitions of digital skills have changed as technology has evolved and also discusses DigComp’s five areas (UNESCO GEM Report 2023). Framework labels are therefore best treated as practical organizing tools, not a final or permanent list of every relevant skill.
How can a beginner build digital literacy?
A practical learning path can begin with basic access and move toward independent, informed use. This sequence is a suggested way to organize practice, not an official order required by any framework.
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Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →- Get comfortable with a device and accounts. Practise turning a device on and off, connecting to the internet, using a keyboard or touchscreen, and signing in and out securely.
- Search and evaluate information. Try different search terms, compare sources, check dates and authorship, and distinguish a supported claim from an unsupported one.
- Communicate and collaborate. Practise email or messaging, video calls, sharing documents, and checking recipients and permissions before sending.
- Create and organize content. Make a document, save it in a known location, use folders or clear filenames, and learn how to find it again.
- Build safer habits. Review privacy settings, protect accounts, and pause before opening unexpected links or sharing sensitive details.
- Troubleshoot everyday problems. Learn to check connections, restart an app or device when appropriate, find settings, and seek reliable help when an issue persists.
Hands-on practice matters, but buying a new device is not a universal prerequisite. Use a suitable device you already have, or look for access through a public library, school, community center, or someone willing to share a device where available.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Where can I find digital literacy learning resources?
These providers describe free, self-paced learning options. Their published course descriptions establish what they offer, not which one produces the best learning outcomes; choose according to the skills you need and the format that works for you.
| Resource | Useful for | Format and considerations |
|---|---|---|
| GCFGlobal technology lessons | Beginning computer skills, including computer parts, laptop and mobile devices, setup, internet basics, safety, maintenance, troubleshooting, and accessibility features. | Free, self-paced lessons. Review the current catalog to confirm the topics and formats available to you. |
| Google Applied Digital Skills | Practical projects such as using email and the internet, creating digital documents, organizing files, and preparing job-search materials. | Free, self-paced video lessons designed around projects. |
| UNESCO ICT Competency Framework for Teachers | Educators planning professional development, instruction, or teacher training. | Teacher-focused framework and related open educational resources; it is not a general beginner course. |
When comparing options, consider whether the material matches your current level, covers your priority topics, gives you a chance to practise, and is accessible in a language and format you can use. Educators may also want to check whether a resource aligns with a framework or supports lesson planning.
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