Digital Skills Made Easy: Two Must-Try Routines for ESOL Volunteer Instructors

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Why Digital Literacy?

"Last week I went to the DMV for the knowledge test to get my driving learner's permit. The [English] class helped me use the computer and successfully pass the test. Without it, I would not have been able to use the computer for my knowledge test."

This learner's story exemplifies why digital literacy is crucial for adult learners. Digital literacy skills involve using technology "to find, evaluate, organize, create, and communicate information; and developing digital citizenship and the responsible use of technology" (The Museum and Library Services Act of 2010).

At the English Empowerment Center, we've made significant strides in incorporating digital literacy into our programs, as highlighted in a previous newsletter. The impact of this is clear in another learner's words:

"Since taking English class, I am able to do many more things and my pronunciation is getting better. I can use the GPS on my phone. I can more easily speak to people in stores to ask questions. I can use the computer now and I know how to google things when I want to know something."

As these stories illustrate, understanding technology vocabulary and using digital skills are essential for our increasingly digital world – from accessing services and supporting your child’s schooling to pursuing educational opportunities and securing employment. By incorporating digital literacy into our English language instruction, we're opening doors to fuller participation in the community.

You might worry that teaching digital skills is outside your expertise or will take time away from language instruction. However, the two routines described below seamlessly blend digital skills with language learning, requiring no specialized tech knowledge on your part.  These routines are easy to implement, adaptable to various levels and topics, and require minimal preparation time. Let's explore how you can use these routines to enhance your class or tutoring instruction:

#1. Question of the Day (or Week)

This routine encourages learners to find information while practicing internet search  strategies, evaluating online information, and building confidence in using technology.

How to implement:

  1. Choose a level-appropriate question and display it. (The question should be something that they are unlikely to know the answer to, such as, “What is the weather forecast for our city next week?”)
  2. Ask learners to use smartphones or computers to find the answer.
  3. Encourage learners to share and compare answers.
  4. Ask questions to build their digital literacy vocabulary, such as:
    1. What search engine did you use? (Did you use Google?)
    2. What keywords or search terms did you use?
    3. On what website did you find the answer?
    4. Can you tell from the URL whether this is a valid site?

Other examples for the Question of the Day: What time does my local library open tomorrow? What free family activities are happening at the Smithsonian museums this weekend? What are the current interest rates for savings accounts at Capital One, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo in our area?

You can also invite questions from learners, such as “how to” questions.

Tips for different levels of language proficiency:

  • Beginners: Use simple questions with straightforward answers. Help with basic navigation and search terms if needed.
  • Intermediate: Encourage learners to compare information from multiple sources.
  • Advanced: Help learners explain their search process and summarize the results.

Resources:

#2. Filling Out Basic Online Forms

 This routine familiarizes learners with common online form structures and fields, preparing them for real-world tasks like job applications, free or reduced lunch applications, library cards, 55+ parks and rec passes, etc.

How to implement:

  1. Find or create a simplified online form and share the link.
  2. Model how to fill out the form, thinking aloud as you go.
  3. Have learners practice filling out the form with you, then in pairs or individually.
  4. Review common mistakes and address questions.

Tips for different levels of language proficiency:

  • Beginners: Start with very simple forms with basic personal information. Provide a translation list for unfamiliar vocabulary.
  • Intermediate: Introduce more complex forms with dropdown menus, checkboxes, and rating scales. Discuss common form instructions (e.g., "Select all that apply").
  • Advanced: Use authentic, local forms. Discuss strategies for handling unfamiliar questions or terms.

Resource: Sample lesson plan from Digital ESL for beginning-level English using smartphones.

Note: EEC staff have simplified Google forms available and can create forms for your use. When using custom forms, inform students that their responses will not be shared outside of class and delete their responses after use. EEC complies with FERPA to protect student privacy.

General Tips for Digital Literacy Routines

  • Start small (once a week) then gradually increase frequency as you and the learners become more comfortable.
  • Connect questions or forms to your current lesson themes and vocabulary.
  • Be consistent with when you do these activities in your lessons (e.g., always start with Question of the Day).
  • Encourage peer support and have backup plans for tech issues.
  • Celebrate learners' progress in using digital tools. Briefly discuss with learners what they found easy or challenging and adjust future activities accordingly.

Training for Volunteers

We encourage all EEC volunteers to incorporate these digital literacy routines into their teaching. Staff can brainstorm with you or recommend other resources and lesson plans. To learn more, we also recommend starting with one of these online or recorded trainings:

Digital literacy is integral to preparing adult learners for success in their daily lives, careers, and continued education. By incorporating these routines, you can support your learners' digital resilience. Remember, you don't need to be a tech expert – start small, be consistent, contact EEC staff for support, and learn alongside your students.