Assessing Digital Literacy and Problem Solving in Technology-rich Environments

David, Thank you for linking us to your presentation on assessing digital literacy. As you note in your presentation, it is critical to support learners to develop the digital literacy skills they need for life and work and now also for the new GED®. The Northstar digital literacy assessments, which are free to individuals, are excellent tools. I’ve copied and pasted from the Northstar website below http://www.digitalliteracyassessment.org/index.php

“What is the Northstar Digital Literacy Assessment? A self-guided, online tool that allows individuals to assess their basic computer skills. Six different modules are available: Basic computer skills, Windows OS, Mac OS, World Wide Web, Email, and Word.”

These assessments, which were developed by some good folks in St. Paul, Minnesota, were new to me. If you, too, are unfamiliar with these tools, you may want to check out the website and try out the assessments. I can imagine using these assessments to ensure adults are prepared with the digital literacy skills they need.

It would be great to hear from folks who are currently using or who may consider using these assessments. We'd also like to hear how programs are supporting students to develop and hone their technology skills.There is apparently some related curriculum available through the St. Paul Public Library, too.

Cheers, Susan

SME Assessment