Digital Literacy for Every Delawarean

Delaware Libraries have launched a new tool that specifically targets digital literacy. Northstar Digital Literacy is an online training tool that was launched in August 2021 and provides basic computer skills training and digital literacy tips.

Delaware Libraries have launched a new tool that specifically targets digital literacy. Northstar Digital Literacy is an online training tool that was launched in August 2021 and provides basic computer skills training and digital literacy tips. 

 

Libraries are always looking for new ways to support their communities. Supporting Delawareans in learning the basics about technology and how to best use it is an important part of what libraries do. This creates a community that is capable of finding and using information that is reliable and relevant which can open up a whole host of opportunities for individuals.



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Collaborative Efforts 

The launch of this training tool is a partnership between Delaware Libraries and Literacy Delaware, both of which are concerned with improving digital literacy for patrons. In addition to collaborating on Northstar Digital Literacy, they each provide critical services to their communities.

Delaware Libraries give patrons free access to high-speed internet by providing computers and WiFi which can be used at the library or borrowed for use at home. Librarians lend support by assisting patrons who need help using devices for reading, school, work, and other activities. 

Literacy Delaware plays a role in literacy efforts throughout the state. They are dedicated to providing adults with low English or low literacy skills with expert guidance to achieve their goals. They offer proctoring services for those individuals wishing to take an assessment and earn a certification.

Northstar Digital Literacy

Northstar Digital Literacy was created to help simplify and standardize digital literacy training. This eLearning tool is provided by Delaware Libraries to help prepare the Delaware workforce as the country manages throughout and recovers from the pandemic. Northstar is a self-guided program with multiple assessments to enable Delawareans to measure their ability to perform basic computer skills. 


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This program includes access to:

  • Digital literacy assessment
  • Digital literacy skills curriculum
  • Digital literacy classes
  • Credentials

Those that complete various portions of the online training can earn a digital badge or certificate in that area. Certificates require users to complete an assessment in addition to the training. Having these certifications can be very useful for job seekers. 

There are three areas in which people are able to earn a certificate after completing an assessment. Whether or not someone passes an assessment, they are given the full report of their results so they know exactly what it is that they’ve mastered and what they still need to work on. 

Essential Computer Skills: basic computer skills, internet basics, email, Windows, Mac OS

Essential Software Skills: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Google Docs

Using Technology in Daily Life: Social Media, Information Literacy, supporting K-12 distance learning, career search skills, your digital footprint

Northstar helps users determine the basic computer and internet skills they would need on a regular basis for work-related purposes or for higher education. It covers 14 different areas and helps users measure their mastery of the skills in each one. Users are able to track their progress and access original online content that is directly related to what they are learning about. 

Get Started Today

To get started, Delawareans can find the Northstar Digital Literacy tool at delawarelibraries.org/emedia. Delaware Libraries have all the needed information and resources available on their website. For more assistance, asking a librarian is the best solution. You can visit a local Delaware library in person or use the “Ask a Librarian” resource online

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When you sign up online you gain access right away to all eMedia! Download eBooks, read eMagazines, use online resources for FREE! Then, contact your public library to transfer your online account to a full account.

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