"This study explores the usefulness of Community Information Centres (CICs) amidst growing ubiquity of mobile phones. It examines how CICs can play a complementary role to personal mobile phones, specifically in facilitating access to information that translates into social and economic progress. Th
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is study was guided by an Integrative Model of Digital Engagement and Impact (IMDEI) employing selected constructs from three dominant theories namely the Uses and Gratifications Theory (UGT), Diffusion of Innovation (DOI) theory and Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). Through a quantitative research design, 500 respondents from 10 CICs were surveyed with 451 valid responses returned. SPSS and SmartPLS software version 25.0 were used to process and analyse the data collected. The findings indicate that although mobile phones are suitable for simple tasks, complicated tasks are better performed in CICs, suggesting a complementary nature of the two (2). The study recommends that future telecentre initiatives adopt models of co-location, which are so far lacking in the Ghanaian case. Moreover, the paper discusses the implications of increased information availability, which allows CICs to widen the scope of services and involve more citizens in their operations, thereby enhancing involvement in activities. The research also discusses the implications of universal service on a wider scale, challenging the adequacy of current service definitions to cater to the needs of heterogeneous communities. The paper concludes that CICs remain an indispensable facility for equitable information access and a source of empowerment, but their success hinges on user participation, adequate policies, and deliberate technology integration. The paper argues for a balanced approach that utilises both mobile technology and CICs to maximize community development and engagement. This study contributes to the ongoing discussion on the role of information access in community development in an increasingly digitalised world." (Abstract)
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"Das Digitale führt zu einem tiefgreifenden gesellschaftlichen Wandel. Betroffen sind das politische System unserer parlamentarischen Parteiendemokratie, die Medien sowie das Lernen in seinen unterschiedlichen Ausprägungen. Diese revolutionären Umwälzungen bleiben nicht ohne Folgen. Denn: Über
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soziale Netzwerke und Blogs können große demokratische Potenziale mobilisiert werden. Die neuen Partizipationsmöglichkeiten des Web 2.0 haben aber auch Konsequenzen für Inhalte und Formate der politischen Bildung. Doch was folgt aus der täglichen Beschäftigung mit virtuellen Welten? Droht die „digitale Demenz“, wie ein Hirnforscher behauptet? Klicken wir uns das Hirn weg? Untersuchungen über digitale Spielwelten und medienpädagogische Empfehlungen runden den vorliegenden Band ab." (Verlagsbeschreibung)
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"Aus den neuen Möglichkeiten der digitalen Welt resultiert eine Vielzahl (medien-)pädagogischer Aufgaben. „Jugend online – Herausforderungen für eine digitale Jugendbildung“ heißt die neue Publikation über die Arbeit des medienpädagogischen Projektes, die aktuelle Entwicklungen der digit
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alen Welt und ihre Bedeutung für die Medienpädagogik aufzeigt sowie Angebote und Maßnahmen, die Jugend online initiiert und erprobt hat. Ergänzend berichten Partnerinnen und Partner von Jugend online von gemeinsamen Projekten, Veranstaltungen und Aktionen. Damit bietet die Publikation vielfältige Anregungen für die Praxis einer zeitgemäßen Medien- und Jugendarbeit." (Verlagsbeschreibung)
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"Der Band gibt einen Einblick in verschiedene sozial- und medienwissenschaftliche Studien zur Erforschung der Potenziale und der sozialen, ethischen sowie rechtlichen Problematiken von sowohl Netzwerkportalen als auch Online-Spielekulturen. Wissenschaftler und Praktiker setzen sich ausführlich mit
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den neuen Kommunikationsräumen des Internets auseinander und zeigen über handlungsorientierte Ansätze der Medienpädagogik Wege auf, wie Netzwerkaktivitäten kritisch reflektiert werden können." (Verlagsbeschreibung)
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"The Internet has penetrated material reality to such an extent that it is now often impossible to disentangle the material from the virtual. In this postdigital scenario, the encounter with 'newness' becomes accessible at the touch of a button, 24/7. Learning becomes a lifewide experience which all
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ows for the emergence of new culturalities. The contributors to this volume engage with cultural changes brought about by an intensified digitalization process in the context of formal education but also shed light on unexpected contexts in which informal learning experiences take place every day, strengthening diasporas, creating new connections and transforming ourselves and our societies." (Publisher description)
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"With a special focus on the impact of the COVID-19, the collection is based on the 2021 Digital Inclusion, Policy and Research Conference, with chapters from both academia and civic organizations. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed citizens' relationship with digital technologies for the foreseeable
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future. Many people's main channels of communication were transferred to digital services, platforms, and apps. Everything 'went online': our families, friends, partners, health, work, news, politics, culture, arts and protesting. Yet access to digital technologies remained highly unequal. This brought digital inclusion policy and research to the fore, highlighting to policymakers and the public the 'hidden' challenges and impacts of digital exclusion and inequalities. The cutting-edge volume offers research findings and policy case studies that explore digital inclusion from the provision of basic access to digital, via education and digital literacy, and on to issues of gender and technology. Case studies are drawn from varied sources including the UK, Australia, South America, and Eastern Europe, providing a valuable resource in the pursuit of social equity and justice." (Publisher description)
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"In an era where digital interactions dominate, young people must be equipped with more than just basic digital literacy skills. Media and Information Literacy (MIL) has become an essential competency, enabling them to critically navigate the overwhelming _ow of information in our fast-paced and com
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plex information ecosystem. With the Internet user base getting younger every day - data shows that one in three internet users is a child - countries worldwide are increasingly working on integrating MIL into their education systems. Despite these advancements, many young people still grapple with challenges such as disinformation, hate speech, and other harmful online content. Additionally, new technologies continue to emerge, creating challenges with unknown impacts. For example, 80% of young people aged 10 to 24 use AI multiple times a day for education, entertainment, and other purposes. Global youth organizations are at the forefront of UNESCO's efforts to promote MIL among young people through informal education. This toolkit serves as a primary resource to help these organizations incorporate MIL into their strategies, policies, and operations, aiming to make MIL a lasting component of their practices and peer-to-peer educational programs." (Abstract)
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"In 2023, 79% of world’s youth between the age of 15-24 were using the internet. In this unfolding digital age, the role of education in general, and global citizenship education in particular, is crucial. It enables to equip all learners, especially the youngest ones, with the skills and competen
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cies to effectively access, critically engage with, create, use and share information and knowledge on and through diverse digital technologies, especially social media platforms. This publication provides educators with lesson plans, modules, and effective pedagogical strategies to enhance learners’ abilities in navigating and positively contributing to the digital world, with a strong focus on critical thinking and ethical decision-making. By equipping educators with these tools, the publication strives to prepare current and future generations for active participation in creating peaceful, just and sustainable societies." (Short summary)
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"The survey findings reveal that 25 per cent of those aged between 15 and 74 have at least basic digital skills, with 7.8 per cent having above basic digital skills and 17.3 per cent having basic digital skills. The study also found that over a quarter (26.5%) of respondents below the basic level of
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digital skills conduct digital activities in four out of five skill areas. This group, already equipped with devices and Internet access, and familiar with a range of online activities, presents an opportunity for targeted training, particularly in the skills area of safety, to elevate them to the basic level of digital skills.
Moreover, 45 per cent of Azerbaijanis aged between 15 and 74 only possess activities in zero to three skill areas out of five. Even if this group of people is active online, without basic digital skills and rudimentary knowledge of digital technologies, they not only lack the skills to benefit from digitalization but they may face online risks as a consequence. For this group, upskilling will reduce and mitigate any negative impact.
The most important skill areas include safety, digital content creation and problem-solving, and major upskilling interventions and training programmes should be built around these three areas, preferably with targeted upskilling activities for different segments of the population. Moreover, getting a better understanding of why 3.4 per cent of people aged from 15 to 74 have not used the Internet in the past three months will be an important step in getting them online.
The survey recommendations will serve as the basis for designing and planning relevant future government interventions, policies or strategies for digital upskilling at national and regional levels. A number of recommendations, both short and long-term, are outlined by age group. Connections with education institutions are made as formal education offers a structured context to implement digital upskilling strategies to guarantee at least basic digital skills as part of learners’ exit profile from education and training." (Exeuctive summary)
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"The Digital Skills Toolkit is a guide for governments to develop national digital skills strategies. The aim is to provide governments with step-by-step guidelines and multiple examples that cover a wide range of contexts to draw upon from around the world. The toolkit is for all countries - those
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with existing digital skills strategies since technological change requires continuous monitoring and review, and those without existing digital skills strategies to assist them with a structured process for development of a comprehensive and implementable national strategy. Most countries today are likely to have digital skills strategies under multiple government ministries and departments, such as ICT, digital transformation, education, labour, health, or rural development. This toolkit is intended to assist countries in developing a comprehensive national strategy that reforms and unites individual strategies for enhanced synergies and efficiencies." (Page 3)
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"Digital wellbeing is all about finding the balance between the digital world and the real world – and making sure we use smartphones and other digital devices in a healthy way, while living fulfilling lives beyond the screen. This guide helps tweens and teens do exactly that, inspiring them to se
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t their devices aside (sometimes anyway!) and start living in the here and now. Written by digital wellbeing expert Tanya Goodin, it’s packed with positive prompts, thought-provoking science, and hands-on activities to encourage healthy habits around screen use – including nostalgic crafts, retro tech scavenger hunts, and phone-free nature excursions, plus practical tips on how to deal with digital challenges like comparison culture, cyberbullying, trolling, and much more. This book is not about teenagers giving up their devices forever; it’s about being more mindful of how they use them, so they can live their best lives – on and off the screen." (Publisher description)
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"Former social media influencer and trailblazer Erin Loechner has seen the perks and pitfalls of social media usage, and she knows how to hack the strategies of tech wizards and platform experts so you can borrow their billion-dollar playbook to engage your family in meaningful ways away from screen
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s. The Opt-Out Family is packed with eye-opening research and startling insights, as well as practical encouragement and creative ideas to transform your family's relationship with today's ever-evolving technology. As a result, you will: experience more quality time with your children that doesn't revolve around screens; create healthy habits as a family that will set your children up for success in the future; discover what your kids actually need from you, and learn how to delight and engage them better than a device can. And, ultimately, establish true and lasting influence within your own four walls--and far beyond; The Opt-Out Family unlocks a world where genuine connections flourish and technology takes a backseat. It's time to reclaim your home and build a tech-free family culture that's stronger than your Wi-Fi signal." (Publisher description)
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"The goal of this policy brief is to demonstrate how stakeholders can apply the lens of Media and Information Literacy for all to Artificial Intelligence/Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI/GAI) to address its risks and opportunities in the information and digital ecologies. A special focus is on
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the empowerment of youth and highlighting issues of gender and cultural diversity. It also aims to provide recommendations based on Media and Information Literacy (MIL) principles and competences that can lead to concrete policy actions. This policy brief is also useful for civil society organizations and a variety of stakeholders, including media, digital platforms, and governments." (Introduction)
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" Dieses Handbuch bietet auf dem aktuellen Stand der Praxis und Forschung konkrete Impulse für die Schul- und Unterrichtsentwicklung. Dabei gehen die Autor:innen insbesondere auf die Merkmale eines kompetenzorientierten Unterrichts ein und untersuchen, inwiefern sich der Einsatz digitaler Medien sp
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eziell für dieses pädagogische Konzept anbietet. Andere Beiträge befassen sich mit Lernplattformen, Learning Analytics sowie mit Unterrichtskonzepten, die einen hybriden Einsatz digitaler und analoger Lernsettings vorsehen. Das Handbuch schließt mit einem Überblick über digitale Medien im Unterricht, gibt dazu didaktische Empfehlungen und vermittelt Ideen für die Praxis. Das Handbuch hat sich in kurzer Zeit zum Standardwerk entwickelt. Die 3. Auflage wurde vollständig aktualisiert und um neue Kapitel zu Künstlicher Intelligenz, insbesondere ChatGPT, in Schule und Unterricht ergänzt." (Verlagsbeschreibung)
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"More than a dozen experts provide deep insights in stories, research reports, and geographical studies of digital literacy and inclusion models, all from a multi-disciplinary perspective that includes engineering, social sciences, and education. Digital Literacy and Inclusion also highlights a show
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case of real-world digital literacy initiatives that have been adopted by communities of practice around the globe. Contributors explore myriad aspects and modalities of digital literacy: digital skills related to creativity, urban data literacy, digital citizenship skills, digital literacy in education, connectivity literacy, online safety skills, problem-solving and critical-thinking digital skills, data literacy skills, mobile digital literacy, algorithmic digital skills, digital health skills, etc. They share the principles and techniques behind successful initiatives and examine the dynamics and structures that enable communities to achieve digital literacy efficiently and sustainably." (Publisher description)
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"The textbook applies media literacy principles and critical thinking to the key issues facing young adults today, from analyzing and creating media messages to verifying information and understanding online privacy. rough discussion prompts, writing exercises, key terms, and links, readers are pro
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vided with a framework from which to critically consume and create media in their everyday lives. is new edition includes updates covering privacy aspects of AI, VR and the metaverse, and a new chapter on digital audiences, gaming, and the creative and often unpaid labor of social media and in uencers. Chapters examine news literacy, online activism, digital inequality, social media and identity, and global media corporations, giving readers a nuanced understanding of the key concepts at the core of media literacy. Concise, creative, and curated, this book highlights the cultural, political, and economic dynamics of media in contemporary society, and how consumers can mindfully navigate their daily media use." (Publisher description)
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"Das neue umfassende Standardwerk für den Bereich der Digitalen Ethik. Das Handbuch verschafft einen Überblick über die Herausforderungen und Besonderheiten der Ethik im digitalen Raum und versammelt namhafte Expert:innen zu folgenden Themenfeldern: Theoretische Zugänge (Deontologische Ansätze,
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Narrative Ethik, Trans- und posthumane Ansätze u.a.m.); Werte der Digitalen Ethik (Gerechtigkeit, Autonomie, Privatheit u.a.m.); Diskurse (Benachteiligung, Überwachung, Datenschutz u.a.m.); Praxisfelder (Kommunikation, Gaming, Lernen und Bildung u.a.m.)." (Verlagsbeschreibung)
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