SJSU First-Year Writing Program's DigiTal Literacy showcase • Fall 2024 •

Event detaIls at a glAnce

November 22, 2024

2:00-4:00pm

San José State UnIversity, Student Union, Second Floor, Room 4A/B

Purpose & Background

Building on the First-Year Writing (FYW) Program's commitment to process over product, the inaugural SJSU FYW Digital Literacy Showcase spotlights students' digital works-in-progress.

In 2024, FYW launched a Digital Literacy Initiative with support from Adobe Systems and the Provost's Office. SJSU’s identity as Silicon Valley’s Public University demands that we be at the forefront of supporting students’ digital literacy in recognition of evolutions in writing, reading, & pedagogy. Our digital literacy initiative is aligned with:

SJSU's GE learning outcomes

CSU's Supported Pathways initiative

best-practices in post-secondary writing instruction

the Council of Writing Program Administrator's framework for student success

best practices in Media Education in English Language Arts

Our overarching goals are to:

goals

FYW's Digital Literacy Showcase is open to all students, faculty, staff, administrators, families, community members, and anyone else who wants to see the amazing, interesting, and complex work students develop in first-year writing classes.

WHy should you & your students attend?

In a rapidly changing digital landscape, digital literacy equips college students with the skills needed for lifelong learning and adaptation. Digital literacy takes time and practice, but it has been shown to help students (and others) develop:

Academic Success: Digital literacy helps students effectively use technology to research, collaborate, and present their work. It goes beyond basic computer skills, involving the ability to critically evaluate online information, understand digital tools, and utilize multimedia content to enhance learning and communication. Mastering these skills is vital for writing papers, conducting research, and working on group projects.

Career Readiness: Most jobs today require some level of digital proficiency. Employers look for candidates who can navigate digital tools, manage online communication, and adapt to new technologies. Whether in marketing, healthcare, education, or any other field, digital literacy is a key competency. Being digitally literate makes students more competitive in the job market and better prepared to handle workplace tasks and challenges.

Informed Citizenship: Digital literacy is crucial for understanding the world, especially when it comes to consuming news and information online. It enables students to identify credible sources, avoid misinformation, and engage in informed discussions on social and political issues. This awareness is essential for participating in society as responsible citizens.

Personal Empowerment: Knowing how to use digital tools effectively can help students manage their personal lives, from budgeting with apps to staying connected with friends and family. It also enables them to use social media and online platforms to advocate for causes they care about, share ideas, and build networks.

showcase organizer team

Contact

Ryan Skinnell, Director of First-Year Writing Programs

ryan.skinnell@sjsu.edu

Amanda Smith, Assistant Director and Stretch Coordinator

amanda.smith@sjsu.edu

We look forward to seeing you at the showcase!