Digital Literacy
Digital Literacy is the CCSLC domain that tests whether you can use computer systems, common applications, the internet and email safely and responsibly. Questions mix vocabulary (hardware, software, URL, cell reference) with practical judgements (which file format to choose, which email field to use, whether a link is trustworthy).
Core rules and concepts
- Computer systems: input, processing, output and storage. Hardware is the physical equipment; software is the set of instructions. System software, such as the operating system, manages hardware and files; application software performs user tasks such as word processing.
- Files and formats: save work with meaningful names inside folders. Know common extensions: .docx (Word), .xlsx (spreadsheet), .pptx (presentation), .pdf (fixed layout), .jpg (image), .mp3 (audio), .html (web page). PDF preserves layout; .docx remains editable.
- Internet: a browser displays web pages; a search engine indexes them. A URL contains a protocol, domain and path, for example https://example.com/library/page. HTTPS encrypts traffic, but a padlock is not proof that a site is honest.
- Email: To is the main recipient; Cc is a visible copy; Bcc is a hidden copy. Use a concise subject and name attachments clearly.
- Spreadsheets: a formula begins with =, and =SUM(A1:A5) adds the values in that range.
- Digital citizenship: use strong unique passwords, recognise phishing and malware, manage your digital footprint, respect copyright and avoid plagiarism, report cyberbullying and follow netiquette.
Worked example
An email says: “URGENT: Your account will be closed in 24 hours. Click http://bank-verify.example and enter your password.” The warning signs are the artificial urgency, the generic greeting, the look-alike domain and the request for a password. Legitimate organisations do not ask for passwords by email. The correct response is not to click; open a browser, type the official address, contact the bank, then report and delete the message. If you already entered the password, change it and tell the bank.
Traps that cost marks
- Confusing Cc (visible) with Bcc (hidden).
- Treating a browser and a search engine as the same thing.
- Choosing the wrong save format or losing a file extension.
- Assuming HTTPS or a padlock means a website is safe.
- Copying text without citation (plagiarism) or using images without permission (copyright).
- Thinking a deleted file is gone before the Recycle Bin or Trash is emptied.