Combating Low Digital Literacy in the College Classroom: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Rapid changes in information communication technologies (ICTs) require college students develop, possess, and adapt digital literacy skills needed for student success. Many students in college did not develop these basic skills in their K–12 education needed for higher level academic success. A narrative review of the literature explored why some students are coming to college with digital literacy skills below minimum expectations and how education leaders can provide equitable access to technology to combat low digital literacy skills. The review identified three levels of digital divides—access, skillset, and outcome—that impact student success. Institutional interventions to combat these divides are explored. Students who have the opportunity to develop their digital literacy skills early in their post-secondary schooling will find greater academic and later professional success