Digital Literacy Skills

One of the many Employability Skills, previously being called IT or ICT use. This is everywhere in the workplace – mobile phone technology, web and mobile apps, tablet computing, laptops, desktops, software applications – World Wide Web (Internet) browsers, word processors, spreadsheets and email are probably the most commonly used within the workplace and for formal learning. Being able to use and understand, or readily learn how to use, specific software and equipment, such as irrigation control systems, lighting technology controls, or machinery digital control panels is an essential aspect of the modern grounds care industry.

Microsoft Office is the traditional software package within organisations, but there is lots of other software available that can be just as useful. The use of databases may prove more difficult to evidence as these can be more specialist; however, the concepts of a database can be illustrated through the use of online shopping. Other specialist software that you might use could include web page creation, CRMs, graphics packages, tax / accounting software, video editing, audio editing, presentation, publishing, or communications software.

There can be a huge range of possibilities: You can download and use a lot of open-source software to cover most requirements.

The use of cloud computing services may be a skill you can highlight (iTunes, Amazon, Google, DropBox, all provide storage and other cloud services) along with competency in different operating systems such as Windows, iOS and Android.

Learning is very much digital nowadays, especially online learning, so emphasising this within a cv or job application is another beneficial trait. Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality and Mixed Reality are areas where you may also have experienced and gained a good skill set within the learning environment.

Make sure that you have an understanding of the Data Protection Act / GDPR because in many organisations you may have access to a range of personal information about people. Knowing the information you can, or cannot, pass on to others will provide a potential employer with greater confidence in your abilities as a responsible employee and especially one who has good business awareness.

Understanding the need for good password use and control is an essential digital skill, especially considering the huge number of different sites where you may use passwords for accessing services. Knowing how to deal with malware, phishing and other digital threats also underpins digital literacy.