Using digital tools thoughtfully, effectively & responsibly
As technology and Al evolve, digital literacy is less about learning every new tool and more about choosing the right ones, experimenting with purpose and understanding the advantages of the tools you choose.
Digital literacy definition
To critically, effectively and ethically use digital technologies.
How digital literacy shows up in your learning
Digital literacy is about making informed choices about technology — not knowing every tool, but knowing which tool to use and why.
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Select appropriate tools for tasks
You choose a specific software for data visualisation rather than a basic spreadsheet to better communicate your research findings to your audience. Selecting the right digital tools for the task helps you build enduring digital literacy skills.
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Use AI or digital platforms purposefully
You use a generative AI tool to brainstorm initial project ideas while ensuring you critically evaluate the output to maintain your own unique voice. Purposefully using technology helps you develop your skills in an ethical and enduring way.
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Manage information, data, and privacy responsibly
You carefully organise your digital files and adjust your privacy settings when collaborating on a shared drive to protect your team’s intellectual property. Managing information responsibly is an enduring human skill that supports both your personal growth and professional success.
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Reflect on how technology affects your thinking
You take a moment to consider how using a specific digital platform changed your approach to a problem compared to working with pen and paper. This type of reflection helps turn learning into insight, making the "invisible" impact of technology on your learning journey visible.
How you build digital literacy at university
You develop this skill through:
Using digital tools for learning, collaboration, and analysis
Experimenting with new technologies
Developing good cyber and data practices
These experiences help you learn how digital literacy leads to stronger outcomes.
How to recognise digital literacy in yourself
Ask yourself:
Why did I choose this tool?
How did it support my learning or decision-making?
What limitations or risks did I consider?
Being able to answer these questions helps you describe your digital literacy skills in meaningful, concrete terms.
How students often describe this skill
Instead of:
“I used digital tools.”
You might say:
“I selected and used digital tools thoughtfully to support my learning and manage information responsibly.”
This shifts the focus from the task to the skill you used.
Why digital literacy matters beyond university
Digital literacy supports efficiency, critical thinking, and ethical engagement with technology.
Want to explore this further?
- Notice how you choose tools in your studies, or
- Use the Skills Bot to practise articulating your digital literacy.
