Fear to Fascination: Learner Confidence and Blended Instruction for Digital Literacy Acquisition

Authors

Kimberly D. Pendell, Portland State UniversityFollow
Elizabeth Withers, Portland State UniversityFollow
Jill Castek, Portland State UniversityFollow
Drew Pizzolato, Portland State UniversityFollow
Gloria Jacobs, Portland State UniversityFollow
Stephen Reder, Portland State UniversityFollow

Sponsor

This research was supported by a National Leadership Grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services to Portland State University (LG-06-11-0340-11).

Document Type

Presentation

Publication Date

2015

Subjects

Information literacy, Computer-assisted instruction, Digital divide -- United States -- Case studies

Abstract

For many, developing digital literacy requires overcoming a variety of barriers beyond access to a networked computer. Particularly among underserved populations, structure and support are needed to build the cognitive and technical abilities that constitute digital literacy. This research-focused presentation explores a self-paced, tutor-facilitated learning model implemented in community based organizations, workforce centers, libraries, and other settings around the United States. The blended learning model provided an online learning platform and curriculum including self-selected learning goals and knowledge checks, while in-person tutors encouraged learners’ discovery and persistence. Analysis of qualitative data from learner and tutor interviews, and quantitative data from the learning platform, demonstrates that this blend of online materials and tutor support helped move individuals from “fear to fascination” in learning vital digital literacy skills. Our findings indicate that many learners gained confidence and a sense of self-efficacy as a result of the digital literacy acquisition process supported by this learning model. Confidence and a sense of self-efficacy bolster independent lifelong and lifewide learning as learners integrate their new digital literacy skills into their everyday lives.

Description

Paper presented at Technology, Knowledge, and Society Conference, Berkeley, CA.

The PowerPoint presentation is available below in the Additional Files section below

Persistent Identifier

http://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/14771

Recommended Citation

Pendell, K., Withers, E., Castek, J. Pizzolato, D., Jacobs, G., & Reder, S. (2015). Fear to Fascination: Learner Confidence and Blended Instruction for Digital Literacy Acquisition. Paper presented at Technology, Knowledge, and Society Conference, Berkeley, CA.