Computer literacy: insufficient for digital age literacy learners

Abstract

South Africa, and similar economies, cannot afford to lose another generation in the current schooling system, by failing to adequately equip youth to take advantage of life in a modern knowledge economy. This paper adopts a more philosophical approach initially to comprehending such issues as the digital divide, and makes a clear distinction between computer literacy and digital literacy. These perspectives form the basis for the Young Engineers and Scientists of Africa (YESA) initiative which was incubated within the CSIR's Meraka Institute to initiate and nurture a pipeline of human capital in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and innovation (STEMI). The emphasis is on the acquisition of 21st century skills through innovative and stimulating school based programs. e-Skills are embedded in all activities and are regarded as essential to equipping learners with the right knowledge, skills, attitudes and values to draw benefit from life in a modern technological world. Failure to address the development of e-skills within the education system as well as the broader society will leave individuals on the wrong side of the digital divide as they cannot compete in a global economy.