What is digital literacy?

Digital literacy encompasses a wide range of skills necessary for effectively navigating the digital world. This includes understanding how to use digital devices—such as computers, smartphones, and tablets—and applying that knowledge in various contexts. Being digitally literate means being able to operate systems, software, and applications, as well as understanding digital communication and information management.

While other options touch on aspects of digital literacy, they do not capture its full scope. For example, the ability to read online content is just one facet of digital literacy, focused on comprehension rather than the broader context of interaction with technology. Similarly, creating digital content and conducting online research are important skills, but they fall under specific tasks rather than the overarching ability to use and understand digital devices effectively. Understanding and operating these devices is foundational, as it allows individuals to engage with other digital tasks, including creating content and conducting research. Thus, the most comprehensive definition of digital literacy includes the capability to operate and understand digital devices effectively.