Developing Transferable Digital Literacy Skills in the Classroom

Workspace Skills provides self-paced, interactive tutorials designed to build essential digital literacy, empowering students with transferable skills across. This case study explores how Workspace Skills is being used to enhance student digital capabilities and promote independent learning at Velma Hamilton Middle School in Madison, Wisconsin.

The Importance of Transferable Digital Skills

In today's classrooms, students need digital skills that go beyond specific software. Workspace Skills addresses this by offering structured tutorials that focus on core digital concepts and their real-world application.

A Teacher's Experience: Nate Hamilton's Perspective

Nate Olsen, a Computers/Video teacher at Velma Hamilton Middle School, has been using Workspace Skills since January 2021. He sought a resource that would help students develop foundational digital skills, particularly within Google Workspace. He found Workspace Skills' "learn by doing" approach aligned perfectly with his teaching philosophy.

Nate has observed several key benefits:

• Increased Student Engagement: High participation rates across all student levels.

• Empowered Independence: Students are developing problem-solving skills and self-reliance.

• Transferable Skill Development: Students are gaining skills applicable across various digital platforms.

• Equitable Access: Workspace Skills provides accessible digital literacy training for all.

Insights from Nate

"Workspace Skills has a 'learn by doing' approach, which is exactly how I teach. It's one of the best parts of my day. I encourage students to learn independently. It’s the one resource that gets nearly 100% participation from all students, across all levels. That’s something I don’t often see, especially in an urban setting. It’s great to see them experiment and learn."

Impact on Student Learning

Workspace Skills empowers students to take ownership of their learning. The structured tutorials allow for self-paced progression, reinforcing concepts and building confidence. This leads to a deeper understanding of digital tools and the development of applicable skills.

Key Features of Workspace Skills

• Self-Paced Learning: Students learn at their own speed.

• Scaffolded Tutorials: Complex concepts are broken down into manageable steps.

• Focus on Transferable Skills: Skills applicable across various digital platforms.

• Practical Application: Encourages students to apply knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Workspace Skills provides a valuable resource for educators seeking to build foundational digital literacy in their students. By emphasising transferable skills and promoting independent learning, Workspace Skills empowers students to become confident and capable digital users. The experience at Velma Hamilton Middle School demonstrates the positive impact of Workspace Skills on student engagement, independence, and skill development within a classroom setting.