Connected digital devices enabling online and offline communication in the cafe studio

When we consider how to start mapping what ‘digital literacy’ means within the context of a dynamic arts and design educational environment, and ever changing socio-technical systems, where do we start? Do we frame the exploration as a network-topological study, attend to the politics of search engines, and investigate our digital trace routes? Whatever the answer, it’s essential that digital literacy is not perceived simply as a set of technical skills.

Colleagues at UAL are forming a focus group that seeks to address the vital question of what digital literacy means at the University, and they aim to develop a shared set of definitions and competencies. By working with staff and students from all areas of the institution there is the chance to draw a broad and coherent map of our current digital practices, and desires for the future, within art and design education. This knowledge can then be used as a platform and springboard to develop collectively a meaningful and enlightened framework.

To participate in this activity and help to shape the understanding of 21c digital literacy within arts higher education, contact Chris Follows – manager of UAL DIAL project.  You can contribute either online or in a group get-together, and your insights and enthusiasm would be hugely appreciated.

DIAL Project   http://dial.myblog.arts.ac.uk/2012/10/30/understanding-digital-literacies-at-ual-definitions-and-competencies/

Digital Literacy definitions   http://digitalpresent.myblog.arts.ac.uk/digital-literacy/