Digital Essential Skills: An Overview

• Godfrey Okoye Computer Competency Program (GCCP) offers lecturer presentation slides for January-April 2025.
• The lecturer is Ogbu Nnaemeka Emmanuel, Manager of E-learning and GCCP Coordinator at Godfrey Okoye University.
• Contact information for inquiries includes email ([email protected]) and WhatsApp (+2347036129146).

Digital Essential Skills

• Digital essential skills are basic skills for using digital tools and technologies in everyday life, work, and learning.
• These skills enable participation, communication, and task performance in the digital world with confidence and safety.
• As technology evolves, these skills are crucial for staying connected, informed, and productive.
• Digital essential skills are essential for personal empowerment, professional growth, and active participation in the digital world.
• Six key digital essential skills include digital literacy, communication and collaboration, online safety and security, critical thinking and problem-solving, adaptability and learning, and digital etiquette.

Digital Literacy

• Digital literacy empowers individuals to navigate, evaluate, and create information using digital tools effectively and critically
• It involves understanding and using digital tools like computers and software.
• It also involves navigating the internet, browsing, and using online resources effectively.

Basic Computer Skills

• Basic computer skills involve understanding and using digital tools such as computers and software.
• Key components of basic computer skills encompass operating systems, file management, applications software, and security practices.
• An operating system (OS) manages a computer's hardware and software, providing a user-friendly interface.
• Resource management involves controlling memory, processing power, and storage for programs.
• User interface provides ways for users to interact with the system.
• File management organizes, stores, retrieves, and manipulates data.
• Hardware communication bridges hardware components and software.
• Security protects data and system resources from unauthorized access.
• Popular operating systems include Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
• Windows is widely used on personal computers and was developed by Microsoft.
• MacOS is designed for Apple computers.
• Linux is an open-source OS.
• Android is commonly used in smartphones and tablets.
• iOS is exclusive to Apple devices such as iPhones and iPads.

File Management

• File management is the process of creating, organizing, storing, accessing, and maintaining files on a device or system.
• Effective file management ensures easy file location and storage security.
• File organization involves using folders, subfolders, and meaningful names.
• File operations include creating, opening, editing, saving, closing, copying, moving, renaming, and deleting.
• Understanding different file formats like .docx, .pdf, .jpg, or .mp4 is essential.
• File storage uses local drives (C: drive), external devices (USB drives), or cloud storage.
• Search and retrieval allows quick location of files by keywords.
• Backup and recovery prevents data loss.
• Security measures involve password protection, encryption, and access control.

Software Applications

• Software applications, or apps, perform specific tasks or solve problems.
• They run on operating systems and are tailored for personal, business, education, or professional use.
• Productivity apps enhance productivity and collaboration.
• Communication apps enable messaging, video calls, and conferencing.
• Creative and design apps assist with graphic design, video editing, and animation.
• Education and learning apps provide resources for learning.
• Entertainment apps deliver music, video, and games.
• Utility apps help with managing files and system maintenance.
• Desktop software is installed on computers.
• Mobile apps are designed for smartphones and tablets.
• Web applications are accessed via browsers.

Security Practices

• Security practices understanding and applying measures to protect personal information, devices, and online presence.
• Using strong, unique passwords and a password manager is critical.
• Enabling Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) adds a security layer.
• Keeping software updated protects against vulnerabilities.
• Caution should be exercised with links and attachments.
• Securing Wi-Fi networks with strong passwords and avoiding unsecured networks is important.
• Reviewing and adjusting privacy settings and recognizing scams are helpful.
• Backing up data regularly, using antivirus and firewall protection, and staying informed about digital threats are required..

Internet Navigation

• Internet navigation, browsing, and using online resources effectively is a valuable skill.
• A web browser is a software application that allows you to view websites.
• Search engines are used to search the web.
• Website URLs can be entered directly in the address bar.
• Browser tabs can be used to open multiple websites at once.
• Browser navigation buttons are used to move back and forward between pages.
• Use specific keywords to make searching more efficient.
• Bookmark frequently visited sites to avoid re-searching.
• Use browser tabs and tools to keep organised

Online Resources

• Educational platforms includes Coursera, Khan Academy, edX, and Udemy.
• Research databases are platforms like Google Scholar, JSTOR, and PubMed.
• Online libraries and e-books includes Project Gutenberg, Open Library, or Google Books.
• Email communication should use clear, concise subject lines and organized inboxes.
• Privacy settings and filters should be used to avoid spam.
• Social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn should be used cautiously.
• Forums and online communities can be used to ask questions or share knowledge.
• Cloud storage allows access to files from any device.
• Note-taking tools are used to organize notes.
• Online collaboration platforms allow collaboration.

Online Safety and Privacy

• Cybersecurity basics, being aware of phishing, malware, and ransomware.
• Phishing involves fraudulent messages to obtain personal information.
• Malware is designed to disrupt or damage computer systems.
• Ransomware blocks access until money is paid.
• Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
• Avoid suspicious links and untrustworthy sources.
• Review privacy settings on websites and apps. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are there to maintain privacy and security.
• Be cautious on social media. Avoid misinformation using fact-checking sites.
• Recognizing fake news and using encrypted websites (HTTPS) is important.

Communication and Collaboration

• Communication and collaboration involves digital technology and platforms to facilitate teamwork and information sharing.
• Digital communication skills involve using tools to convey information clearly.
• Digital literacy involves understanding how to use communication platforms
• Clarity & Tone Adapting for digital interactions.
• Enhancing messages with visuals comes under Multimedia Use.
• Providing and receiving constructive feedback involves good Feedback Etiquette.

Collaboration tools

• Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox, and Box allow cloud-based storage.
• Google Docs, Microsoft Office 365, and Zoho supports document collaboration.
• Miro, MURAL, Jamboard, and Canva are collaborative whiteboards and design tools.
• Google Calendar, Microsoft Outlook, or Calendly provides time management and schedules.
• World Time Buddy is useful for time zone management.

Online Safety and Security

• Managing and securing passwords is key.
• Use a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters when creating passwords. Aim for at least 12 characters.
• Avoid using easily guessable information and use unique passwords for different accounts.
• Use tools like LastPass, 1Password, or Bitwarden to securely store and manage your passwords.
• You can enable 2FA on accounts that support it.
• Utilize biometric authentication options like fingerprint scanners, face recognition, or voice recognition
• Limit what data you overshare.
• Review privacy settings, understand how apps and websites use your data and be cautious with public Wifi.
• Be wary of unsolicited emails, especially those asking for sensitive information like passwords, credit card numbers, or social security numbers.

Device Security

• Update your operating system (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS) regularly.
• Install antivirus software like Norton, McAfee, or Bitdefender.
• Enable firewalls on your computer and devices.
• Use encryption features available on devices (e.g., BitLocker for Windows, FileVault for macOS) to protect the data stored on your devices.
• Always use a strong PIN, password, or biometric security to lock your devices.
• Use search engines like Google, DuckDuckGo, or Bing for browsing.
• Regularly clear your browser's history, cache, and cookies.
• Be selective about which browser extensions you install.
• Secure your Smartphone and be cautious when granting apps access to sensitive information.
• Enable features like Find My iPhone (iOS) or Find My Device (Android) in case of theft.
• Secure online transactions with trusted pyament methods.
• Look for Security Indicators and Ensure that websites use HTTPS for secure transactions.

Social Media and Privacy:

• Be mindful of what you post.
• Review and update privacy settings regularly.
• Be cautious when clicking on links or responding to messages from unfamiliar accounts.

Assesment task

• Briefly study critical thinking and problem solving, Adaptability and Learning of digital essential skills using the study guide.

Digital Etiquette

• Digital etiquette involves rules and guidelines for proper behavior and communication in the digital world.
• Always respect others' time and attention
• Be clear and concise
• Respond promptly: Aim to reply to emails or messages within a reasonable timeframe, especially if they require action.
• Always consider the impact on others, accuracy and privacy when posting content.
• Tone can be hard to gauge in digital communication, so it's important to be mindful of the words you use:
• Be polite and respectful and Avoid ALL CAPS.
• Everyone has their own preferences for how they interact online, and respecting those boundaries is crucial:
• You should not bombard a person with to many messages or texts.
• While emojis and GIFs can add personality and humor to your digital communication, overusing them or using them inappropriately can undermine your professionalism, especially in formal communications.

Good practice

• Ask for clarification if you're confused by someone’s message.
• Use appropriate punctuation to convey the right tone.
• Take a moment to reflect before responding, especially in emotionally charged situations.
• Be mindful of the content you create or interact with.
• Be careful with oversharing: Avoid disclosing too much personal information online that could compromise your privacy or safety.
• Use a professional tone and Proofread before sending.
• Use clear subject lines: A relevant subject line helps the recipient understand the purpose of the email immediately.
• Respect copyright, Always give credit where it's due and mind the "Reply All". Never send unnecessary “Reply All" responses.

Positive online behaviour

• The digital world is filled with diverse opinions, but it's important to foster a positive environment by;
• Avoiding online bullying or trolling
• Being constructive in disagreements
• Encouraging positivity, Use your online presence to uplift and support others when possible.