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Digital Literacy

Students can develop their digital literacy to improve basic skills, navigate the internet successfully, understand tools and build confidence for work and personal use. Whether you're just getting started or brushing up your skills, this page is here to help you feel confident and safe using technology.

Designed for adult learners, with step-by-step guides, videos, and tools you can use at your own pace.

Basic Skills

Using the computer effectively means knowing the basic skills. This includes skills like using a mouse and keyboard, understanding the parts of a computer and turning different types of devices on/off.

  • GCFGlobal – Computer Basics Create a free account to access lessons and tutorials on how computers work and how to use them.
  • Northstar Digital Literacy Test your computer skills, build skills in key areas, and demonstrate your knowledge by earning certificates and badges. (Free with account)
  • Google Applied Digital Skills Learn practical digital skills needed for the jobs of today and tomorrow with free video lessons.

Internet & Online Safety

Internet and online safety includes how to search the web, creating and managing passwords and avoiding scams/phishing in a world of ever-changing technology.

Communication

Communication is one of the most impactful ways digital literacy impacts our lives. Setting and using email with or without attachments, as well as tools like Zoom and Google Meet and telehealth calls connects us all globally. Using texting and messaging apps to keep in touch in the workplace and our personal lives is an essential skill.

  • Cyber Seniors These courses are designed for caregivers of older adults who are new to computers or mobile devices. Help your loved one gain the skills and confidence needed for today’s digital world.
  • WhatsApp Video Tutorial (YouTube) WhatsApp allows you to send and receive messages, photos, videos, and calls on your phone. Learn how to use this app with a step-by-step tutorial.

Everyday Tools

Using everyday tools like Word or Google Docs helps create a fluent tech user. Filling out forms online and utilizing calendars and maps allows users to make the most of the various tools to assist in daily life.

Smartphone Skills

Our phones today do so much more than make calls and text! Having the skills to use a smartphone beyond phone navigation involves downloading and using apps, as well as taking photos and effectively using settings. 

  • Cyber Seniors These courses are designed for caregivers of older adults who are new to Android and iPhone mobile devices. Help your loved one gain the skills and confidence needed for today’s digital world.
  • Digital Skills Library Enter “smartphones” in the search box and see all of the resources and tutorials available to you!
  • Google Applied Digital Skills Learn practical digital skills needed for the jobs of today and tomorrow with free video lessons.

In-Class Resources

Here you will find the links to our platforms that are used in classes at SAE. You will need your school Gmail login to access these resources.

  • Stand Out Gain or maintain the confidence needed for your next interview with practice questions, preparation tools, and more.
  • Northstar Digital Literacy Test your computer skills, build skills in key areas, and demonstrate your knowledge by earning certificates and badges.
  • Google Applied Digital Skills Learn practical digital skills needed for the jobs of today and tomorrow with free video lessons.
  • Burlington English A standards-based curriculum that integrates important life skills, digital literacy, civics, and workforce readiness, developed especially for adult ESL students.

Offline Learning & Study Skills

Here you can download and print guides and activity sheets to help you learn offline, too!

  • Tech Life Unity Browse or search for resources you’re interested in, and print them for reading and studying.
  • Google Applied Digital Skills Learn practical digital skills needed for the jobs of today and tomorrow with free video lessons.

Local Services

Locations where you can access the internet for free.

Practice & Certification

Practice typing and skills online and take quizzes and earn certificates. You can use a keyboard simulator to familiarize yourself with the English alphabet while practicing your typing skills.