David Smahel
Masaryk University
In our latest report, we’re thrilled to present the findings from the ySKILLS project and unveil a fresh theoretical model that promises to reshape our understanding of digital literacy.
In this blog, we’ll take you on a tour of the key highlights from this innovative research.
Figure 1: New theoretical model of ySKILLS
A Paradigm Shift in Digital Literacy
Our journey begins with the integration of findings from the ySKILLS project into a new theoretical model. We build on our theoretical conceptualisation of digital literacy consisting of knowledge and skills elements as well as functional and critical aspects. In this conceptualisation, digital skills are part of the broader concept of digital literacy, which is a fundamental building block of our new model.
A Fresh Perspective
Inspired by previous theoretical models, such as EU Kids Online (Livingstone, Mascheroni, Staksrud, 2018), we’ve crafted a brand-new theoretical model that offers a fresh perspective. We’ve strategically repositioned variables from the original ySKILLS model to enhance clarity and encourage the exploration of new hypotheses. This new model is designed to unveil the intricate interconnections between variables, shedding light on previously hidden insights.
Digital Literacy Takes Center Stage
In this innovative model, digital literacy assumes the central position, reflecting ySKILLS’ unique focus and empirical discoveries. Digital literacy is no longer a one-dimensional concept; it is a multi-faceted phenomenon encompassing technical skills, information navigation, communication, and content creation.
Antecedents and Beyond
Individual and social factors play a pivotal role as possible antecedents of digital skills. These factors include gender, age, personality traits, perceptions, attitudes, mental health, leisure activities, and more. Social factors encompass socioeconomic status, peer and parental variables, teacher influences, and community dynamics.
Digital Engagement Unveiled
Our exploration continues with an in-depth examination of digital engagement, which involves ICT access and online activities. We have identified the significance of ICT access as a vital variable, underlining its importance for marginalised or vulnerable children. Within the realm of digital engagement, we delve into online opportunities, such as online learning and political participation, as well as online risks, like cyberbullying, harmful content, and online addictions.
Wellbeing: The Ultimate Goal
Wellbeing takes center stage as the main outcome in our model, mirroring the preliminary ySKILLS model. Wellbeing encompasses various dimensions, including cognitive, physical, psychological, and social aspects. We explore how digital engagement can impact wellbeing, whether it is in the short term or longer term.
A Deep Dive into the Research
Our research has revealed fascinating insights, emphasizing the need to differentiate individual and social factors in understanding digital literacy. We’ve discovered that individual factors often have stronger ties to digital skills dimensions than social factors, although there are exceptions. The innovative longitudinal design of the ySKILLS project has uncovered within-subject effects, demonstrating how daily online activities can shape digital literacy.
Qualitative Insights
Beyond numbers and statistics, our qualitative research enriches our findings. It highlights the challenges faced by vulnerable children in the digital world, emphasizing the need for a more comprehensive definition of digital skills. These skills are intricately linked to life circumstances, socio-material contexts, and personal, emotional, and social skills.
The Road Ahead
As we navigate this intricate landscape of digital literacy, we must remember that it’s not just about individual achievements. Digital literacy is a bridge to a brighter future, and policymakers, educators, and industry leaders all have a role to play in enhancing it. The pathway may be complex, with risks and opportunities along the way, but it is a journey worth undertaking.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the ySKILLS project has shown that digital literacy can contribute to the wellbeing of young people. It challenges us to consider different dimensions of digital literacy, address potential risks, and tackle the sources of inequality and exclusion. As we seek to improve outcomes for children and young people in the digital world, the importance of promoting their digital literacy cannot be overstated.
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