Communication, collaboration and participation

In the age of digital multimedia, the cost of spreading data and information by way of text and figures, audio and video decreases. Moreover, differently from many earlier technologies, the internet is multidirectional at its core: it supports horizontal, interactive forms of communication and thereby provides new opportunities to build networks and exchange data and information.

This enables new forms of collaboration, including over very long distances, as indicated by the growth of collaborative projects such as open software development and online encyclopedias.

Literacy in this area means the capacity to take part in the culture of exchange and cooperation made possible by digital environments.

Concretely, literacy in digital communication means the capacity to:

• communicate effectively across digital media and spaces, from text-based forums to audio/video conferences and social media
• design digital communications for different purposes and audiences
• maintain privacy and respect others in public communications
• identify and deal with false or potentially harmful digital communications
• pay attention to the varieties of communication norms and needs with a view to promote inclusion and accessibility.

Literacy in digital collaboration means the capacity to:

• participate in digital teams, working groups and professional networks
• collaborate effectively using shared digital tools and media for the purpose of organization or content creation
• work effectively across cultural, social and linguistic boundaries, also by harnessing the potential of AI-based tools.

Literacy in digital participation means the capacity to:

• participate in, facilitate and build digital networks
• participate in social and cultural life using digital media and services
• create positive connections and build personal contacts
• share and amplify messages across networks
• negotiate and resolve conflict
• behave safely and ethically in networked environments.