Digital literacy

Digital literacy is the ability to use digital devices, the internet, and technology tools
effectively and safely. It involves knowing how to find, evaluate, create, and communicate
information using computers, smartphones, and other digital platforms. Being digitally literate
helps us learn, solve problems, and stay safe online, which is very important in today’s world
where technology is part of almost everything we do.

Key terms

1. Digital Literacy: Digital literacy means knowing how to use technology like computers,
the internet, and apps safely and smartly. It helps us learn, communicate, and solve
problems in our daily lives.
2. Digital Devices: Digital devices are electronic tools or gadgets that process, store, and
transmit information in digital form.
3. Internet: Network of networks
4. Communication: Communication is the process of sharing information, ideas, or
feelings between people or devices so that they understand each other.
5. Ethics: Ethics are the principles or rules that help people decide what is right and wrong
in their behavior or actions. In technology or the internet, digital ethics is about using
computers, phones, and the internet responsibly and safely.
6. Smart Phone: A smartphone is a mobile phone that can do much more than just make
calls or send text messages. It is like a small computer you can carry in your pocket.
7. Cyberbullying: Cyberbullying is when someone uses the internet, social media, or other
digital devices to hurt, threaten, or embarrass another person.
8. Etiquette: Etiquette means the rules of polite and respectful behavior that people are
expected to follow when they are with others. It is about showing good manners.
9. Cyber law: Cyber law is the set of rules and laws that protect people and guide how
technology, computers, and the internet are used. It deals with issues like online safety,
privacy, cybercrime, and the responsible use of digital information.
10. Cyber crime: Cyber crime is any illegal activity or crime that is carried out using
computers, smartphones, or the internet
11. ZICTA: Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority.

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Understanding Digital Literacy
Digital literacy is knowing how to use computers, smartphones, and the internet responsibly to
learn, communicate, and solve problems.
It involves understanding how to use digital devices, software, and online platforms to
communicate, access information, and create content. Digital literacy also involves practicing
ethical technology use, including protecting personal information, respecting intellectual
property, and promoting digital citizenship.

Importance of Digital literacy in daily life

1. Access to Information: Digital literacy allows individuals to find, evaluate, and use
information online effectively, helping with studies, work, and personal decisions
2. Communication: It enables people to communicate through emails, social media, video
calls, and messaging apps, keeping them connected globally
3. Work and Productivity: Many jobs require basic digital skills, such as using
computers, software, and online tools, to perform tasks efficiently.
4. Education and Learning: Digital literacy supports online learning platforms, research, and
accessing educational resources anytime and anywhere.
5. E-Commerce: It helps individuals use online banking, e-payments, and budgeting tools
safely and efficiently.
6. Safety and Security: Being digitally literate helps users identify online threats like
scams, malware, or misinformation and protect personal information
7. Participation in Society: Digital literacy empowers citizens to engage in e-government
services, online voting information, and community forums.
8. Entertainment and Creativity: It allows people to explore digital media, create content,
and enjoy games, videos, and music responsibly.

Exploring digital devices

 Digital devices like computers, smartphones, and tablets play a big role in our
everyday lives.
 By exploring and learning how to use these devices properly, we can improve our
learning, communication, and entertainment.
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  A computer helps us to type documents, do research, and even play games.
 Smartphones are very popular because they allow us to call, text, browse the internet,
and use apps anywhere we go
 Tablets are also useful since they are bigger than phones but smaller than computers,
making them good for reading, studying, and watching videos.
 A smartwatch is worn on the wrist and can show time, track health, and connect to a
smartphone.
 A digital camera allows us to take clear photos and videos.
 Gaming consoles like the Xbox entertainment through video games and online play.
 A smart board is an interactive digital device often used in classrooms and meetings. It
looks like a large whiteboard but works like a touchscreen computer. Teachers and
students can write, draw, move objects, play videos, and even connect the board to the
internet. Smart boards make learning more engaging and interactive because they
allow everyone to see and participate in lessons in a modern way
 A printer is a digital device that allows us to produce hard copies of documents, pictures,
or schoolwork from a computer, smartphone, or tablet. It changes digital information into
paper form so we can read, share, or keep records. Modern printers can also scan,
photocopy, and connect wirelessly, making them very useful in schools, offices, and
homes.

How to find and evaluate reliable information online

In today’s digital world, it is important to know how to find and evaluate reliable information
online. With so much information available, not everything we read on the internet is accurate
or trustworthy. Learning to check the source, look for evidence, and verify facts helps us use
information responsibly. By following simple steps and using reliable websites, we can ensure
that the information they rely on for homework, projects, and everyday learning is correct and
up-to-date.

Online Information Reliability Checklist

1. Check the Source
✅ Is it a .edu, .gov, or recognized organization?
✅ Who wrote it? Are they an expert?
❌ Avoid unknown blogs or personal pages without credentials.

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2. Look for Evidence
✅ Are facts supported by references or data?
✅ Can you verify the information on other trusted sites?
❌ Be cautious if no sources are given
3. Check Timeliness
✅ Is the information current and up-to date?
❌ Old data might no longer be accurate.
4. Evaluate Critically
✅ Well-organized layout, few ads, working links.
❌ Poor grammar, lots of pop-ups, or flashy clickbait are warning signs.

Digital communication and its proper etiquette

 Digital communication is the way people share information using electronic devices
like computers, smartphones, or tablets through tools such as emails, social media, text
messages, and video calls.
 To make digital communication effective, it is important to follow proper etiquette,
which means being polite, respectful, clear, and responsible when communicating online.

Role of digital communication today

Digital communication plays a very important role in our daily lives. It helps people to:
 Stay Connected: Communicate with family, friends, and colleagues anywhere in the
world.
 Share Information Quickly: Send messages, documents, photos, and videos instantly.
 Support Education: Access online learning tools, resources, and virtual classrooms.
 Conduct Business: Email, video calls, and online meetings make work faster and
easier.
 Access Services: Banking, shopping, government services, and health information are
easier online.

E-mail writing
 Email is short for electronic mail. An email is a letter that is sent over a computer
network instead of being sent through the post.

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  You can attach documents and photos to emails, just like you can include a photo or a
document with a letter. You can also attach computer files, such as programs and
spreadsheets.
 It involves writing a clear subject, a polite greeting, the main message, and a proper
closing.
 Email writing is an important skill because it helps people communicate formally and
professionally using the internet.
 Email is one of the fundamental internet technologies, a tool used by many people with
an internet connection.

Advantages of using e-mail over other communication media.

 Sending e-mail to someone is very easy compared to sending letters.
 E-mails are free to send so long as you have an email account and a connection to the
internet.
 E-mails are received fairly quickly and timely most of the times just after a few
seconds.
 In order for one to receive an email, they don’t have to be present.
 Files and images can be attached to an e-mail.
 A copy of the same e-mail can be sent to a number of different recipients at the same
time without retyping the e-mail.

Parts of An email address

An email address always has an @ symbol (pronounced at).
For example : caytechenterprise@[Link]
An e-mail address consist of three parts:
1. Username – The part before the “@” symbol. It identifies the user.
e.g. caytechentreprise in caytechentreprise@[Link]
2. @ Symbol – This separates the username from the domain and is read as “at.”
3. Domain Name – The part after the “@” symbol. It shows the email service provider.
Example: [Link] in caytechenterprise@[Link]
• Sometimes, the domain can include a subdomain, like @[Link] or @[Link].
• Note that e-mail addresses usually contain only lower case letters (small letters) and do
not have spaces in them.
Examples:
a. info@[Link]

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 b. mwanza@[Link]
c. stedmunds@[Link]
• Every person’s email address is completely unique.
• Do not share your password with anyone for security and privacy purposes

Basic parts of an email

 To – The email address of the person you are sending the email to.
 Cc (Carbon Copy) – Optional; used to send a copy of the email to someone else.
 Bcc (Blind Carbon Copy) – Optional; used to send a hidden copy to someone else
without the main recipient knowing.
 Subject – A short line that tells the reader what the email is about.
 Greeting/Salutation – A polite opening, like “Dear Mr. Hakubeza” or “Hello
Cletus.”
 Body – The main part of the email where you write your message clearly and
politely.
 Closing/Sign-off – A polite ending, like “Sincerely,” “Best regards,” or “Thank
you.”
 Signature – Your name and sometimes additional information like your class,
contact, or position.
Sending, replying and organizing emails
 Sending Emails: This is writing a new email and sending it to one or more recipients.
Make sure to include a clear subject, polite greeting, main message, and proper
closing.
 Replying to Emails: This is responding to an email you received. When replying, it’s
polite to address the sender, answer their questions or comments clearly, and maintain
a respectful tone.
 Organizing Emails: This means keeping your email inbox tidy and easy to manage.
You can organize emails by creating folders, labelling important messages, deleting
unwanted emails, and marking unread or important ones.

Online safety and responsible behavior

Online Safety

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Online safety means taking steps to protect yourself, your personal information, and your
digital devices while using the internet. This includes:
A. Protecting personal information – Avoid sharing sensitive details like your full name,
address, phone number, passwords, or bank information online.
B. Using strong passwords – Create unique and complex passwords for different accounts
to prevent unauthorized access.
C. Being cautious with strangers – Do not trust or meet people you only know online
without adult supervision.
D. Avoiding suspicious links and downloads – Click only on trusted websites and
attachments to prevent viruses and malware.
E. Keeping software updated – Regular updates for devices and apps help protect against
security threats.
Responsible Online Behaviour
Being responsible online means interacting safely, ethically, and respectfully with others. This
includes:
1. Respecting others – Avoid cyberbullying, harassment, or sharing offensive content.
2. Thinking before posting – Once something is online, it can be permanent. Share
content responsibly.
3. Following rules and laws – Respect copyright, privacy, and the platform’s terms of
use.
4. Reporting harmful content – Alert authorities or platform moderators about scams,
cyberbullying, or inappropriate content.
5. Balancing screen time – Use the internet for learning and recreation wisely without
overuse

Digital Literacy in Zambia

 Digital literacy in Zambia is evolving, with notable progress in internet access,
educational initiatives, and government strategies aimed at enhancing digital skills across the
population
 Zambia has recently enacted the Cyber Security Act and Cyber Crimes Act of 2025.
These new laws aim to enhance the country's cybersecurity framework and digital protection.
 The Cyber Laws protects citizens space and privacy, fights fraud, trafficking, cyber
abusers and Zambia’s children, business and borders are safer online

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Authorities in Zambia responsible for cyber crimes
In Zambia, several key authorities are responsible for addressing cybercrimes, each with
distinct roles in regulation, enforcement, and citizens/national security.
1. Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA)
ZICTA is the regulatory body overseeing the ICT sector in Zambia. While ZICTA
focuses on regulation, it collaborates with other agencies to address cybersecurity
challenges.
2. Zambia Police Service (ZPS)

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 The ZPS plays a crucial role in investigating and prosecuting cybercrimes. It
operates a specialized Cybercrime Unit.
3. Zambia Cyber Security Agency (ZCSA) Established under the Cyber Security Act
of 2025, the ZCSA operates under the Office of the President. It coordinates
national cybersecurity efforts.
4. Cyber Incident Response Teams (CIRTs)
Under the Cyber Security Act, Zambia has established CIRTs to respond to and
manage cyber incidents.
5. Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC)
Addresses cybercrimes linked to corruption and financial misconduct.
6. Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC)
Investigates cybercrimes related to financial fraud and money laundering.
7. Zambia Security Intelligence Service. Engages in national security matters,
including cyber threats.

How digital skills are used in careers, education, and daily activities
Digital skills are increasingly essential in careers, education, and daily activities.
In Careers
1. Communication: Professionals use email, video conferencing, and collaboration tools
(like Slack or Microsoft Teams) to communicate and share information.
2. Data Management: Skills like using spreadsheets, databases, and analytics tools help in
organizing, analyzing, and interpreting information.
3. Remote Work & Flexibility: Digital skills enable working from anywhere using cloud
platforms and online project management tools.
4. Problem-Solving & Innovation: Coding, digital design, and using specialized software
allow professionals to create solutions, improve efficiency, and innovate in their fields.
In Education
 Research & Learning: Students use the internet, online libraries, and educational
platforms to find information and complete assignments.
 Collaboration: Digital tools allow students to work together on projects, even
remotely.
 Creativity & Presentation: Programs for creating slides, videos, graphics, or coding
projects help express ideas effectively.

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 Digital Literacy: Learning to safely navigate online resources, evaluate information,
and use educational apps is essential for modern learning.
In Daily Activities
 Communication & Socializing: Messaging apps, social media, and video calls help
people stay connected.
 Managing Finances: Online banking, mobile payments, and budgeting apps rely on
basic digital skills.
 Shopping & Services: E-commerce, online booking, and delivery services make daily
life more convenient.
 Entertainment & Information: Streaming services, news apps, and digital games
require digital literacy for safe and responsible use.

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