Digital literacy is becoming an essential skill in today’s world, as nearly every aspect of life has a digital component. From using the internet to communicate and access information to mastering software tools for personal and professional use, digital literacy is vital for success. If you’re looking to improve your digital skills, there are many online platforms offering courses to help you develop this crucial competency. Here are some of the best ways to learn digital literacy online.
1. Coursera
Coursera partners with top universities and companies to offer courses on digital literacy. You can find courses that cover a broad range of topics, from basic digital skills to more advanced applications.
- Key Courses:
- Digital Literacy and Online Safety (Learn how to navigate the digital world safely)
- Introduction to Digital Literacy (Basic course focusing on the essential digital tools)
- Google IT Support Professional Certificate (Learn digital tools and IT support basics)
- Features:
- University-backed courses
- Certificates upon completion
- Free courses with options for paid certification
- Website: Coursera
2. edX
edX offers high-quality courses from universities like Harvard, MIT, and UC Berkeley. These courses cater to various levels, whether you’re a beginner or seeking to expand your digital literacy knowledge.
- Key Courses:
- Digital Literacy: A practical guide to technology (A course by the University of Sheffield to help you improve your digital skills)
- Introduction to the Internet of Things (IoT) (For those looking to understand the digital networked world)
- The Power of Digital Literacy (A course focusing on understanding the role of digital tools)
- Features:
- Courses from top universities
- Free course options
- Paid certifications available
- Website: edX
3. Google Digital Garage
Google offers a free online learning platform, Google Digital Garage, with courses aimed at improving your digital literacy. The platform covers basic digital skills such as navigating the web and using digital tools.
- Key Courses:
- Fundamentals of Digital Marketing (Understand how to use digital marketing tools)
- Be Internet Awesome (A child-friendly course to improve digital safety and citizenship)
- Digital Literacy for Beginners (Covers digital tools, internet safety, and more)
- Features:
- Free courses, certifications, and resources
- Focus on basic digital skills and internet safety
- Google-backed platform
- Website: Google Digital Garage
4. LinkedIn Learning
LinkedIn Learning offers a wide array of digital literacy courses designed for professionals looking to upgrade their skills. These courses cover everything from using software tools to understanding digital communication.
- Key Courses:
- Digital Literacy for Beginners (Introduction to key digital skills)
- Excel Essential Training (Learn to use spreadsheets for organizing data)
- Mastering Digital Collaboration Tools (Workplace-focused digital tools training)
- Features:
- Courses aimed at professionals
- Integration with LinkedIn profiles for certification
- Free one-month trial
- Website: LinkedIn Learning
5. FutureLearn
FutureLearn offers various courses on digital literacy, focusing on the impact of technology on education, business, and society. The courses are often free to access, and you can opt for a paid certificate at the end.
- Key Courses:
- Digital Skills: Web Analytics (Learn how to use web analytics for digital marketing)
- Digital Skills: Social Media (Learn how to use social media tools for personal and business use)
- Understanding Digital Marketing (A deep dive into the digital marketing world)
- Features:
- University-backed courses
- Free courses with paid certificates available
- Courses designed for all levels
- Website: FutureLearn
6. Khan Academy
Khan Academy offers free educational content, including a series of digital literacy lessons for beginners. These courses are ideal for those just starting their journey with digital tools and the internet.
- Key Courses:
- Computer Programming (An introduction to coding and using digital tools)
- Intro to the Internet (Basic digital skills and internet safety)
- Digital Citizenship and Responsibility (Learn how to navigate the digital world ethically and safely)
- Features:
- Completely free courses
- Easy-to-understand content for beginners
- Access to practice exercises
- Website: Khan Academy
7. Udemy
Udemy offers a wide range of affordable courses on digital literacy, including beginner to advanced topics. The platform provides hands-on, self-paced learning, and you can learn at your own pace.
- Key Courses:
- Digital Literacy: The Essential Skills You Need (Basic digital literacy skills for beginners)
- Mastering Google Drive (Learn to use Google’s suite of digital tools)
- Master Excel for Beginners to Advanced (Gain proficiency in Excel for work and personal use)
- Features:
- Affordable pricing with frequent discounts
- Lifetime access to course materials
- Courses designed for a range of tech skills
- Website: Udemy
8. Microsoft Learn
Microsoft Learn offers free online courses that teach you how to use Microsoft tools such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more. It’s an excellent resource for anyone looking to improve their digital literacy.
- Key Courses:
- Microsoft Office Essentials (Learn the basics of Microsoft tools)
- Introduction to Microsoft 365 (Overview of the tools available in Microsoft’s suite)
- Cloud Computing Basics (Introduction to cloud technology)
- Features:
- Free courses on Microsoft tools
- Interactive lessons with real-world scenarios
- Certifications available for certain courses
- Website: Microsoft Learn
9. Alison
Alison offers a variety of free online courses, including digital literacy programs that teach practical skills for navigating the online world effectively and safely.
- Key Courses:
- Diploma in Digital Literacy (Covers the essentials of digital tools, online communication, and digital security)
- Introduction to Social Media (Learn the basics of using social media platforms)
- Introduction to Digital Marketing (An introduction to the world of digital marketing)
- Features:
- Free courses with the option to purchase certificates
- Wide range of digital literacy courses
- Self-paced learning
- Website: Alison
10. OpenLearn
OpenLearn, by The Open University, provides free online courses focused on improving digital literacy. The courses cover a range of digital skills needed for personal and professional growth.
- Key Courses:
- Digital Skills: Web Analytics (Introduction to web analytics for digital professionals)
- Managing Digital Information (Learn how to manage information digitally)
- Digital Photography Basics (Get started with digital photography)
- Features:
- Free, high-quality courses
- Open University-backed
- No certification fees for many courses
- Website: OpenLearn
