The UOC Library takes part in an international project to promote digital literacy
Subject: Multidisciplinary
The initiative ascribes libraries a key role in training citizens to be critical and informed in their use of technology
The IFLA MLCE Guidelines provide practical recommendations for carrying out training activities in libraries.
The UOC Library has participated in the European Media Literacy Case for Educators (MLCE) project, an initiative co-led by Tactical Tech, the International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA), Save the Children Italy and European Schoolnet, a network that includes ministries of education from all of Europe. One of its various lines of work focuses on providing tools for libraries and information professionals so that they can help citizens to be critically aware in their uses of technology.
The results of the project have been published in the IFLA MLCE Guidelines, which contain the experiences of several libraries and their training on digital literacy. They also provide recommendations for planning effective, low-cost training courses which are easy to adapt to various situations and needs, on topics including disinformation, algorithms and artificial intelligence.
How did the UOC Library contribute?
Neus Malagarriga represented the UOC Library in this project, through the Network of Spanish University Libraries (REBUIN). Participants from libraries from various countries shared needs, good practices and experiences related to digital literacy. They also participated in Training of Trainers sessions and contributed to raising awareness of the contents of the Everywhere, All the Time exhibition, which is a reflection on adolescents' everyday use of technology.
We wanted to take part in a project with a social impact by sharing the contents of the exhibition in the UOC Technology Teaching and Learning Project course, and helping to translate the exhibition materials into Catalan. We've picked up ideas and resources to adapt to our context.
Operative group:Neus Malagarriga, Librarian for Information and Communication Sciences
At the UOC, the materials from the exhibition have been included in the Technology Teaching and Learning Project course, which is part of the University Master's Degree in Teacher Training - Secondary Education, Language Teaching and Vocational Training. They are a resource that future teachers can use in the classroom when working with students on how to use technology critically.
The UOC Library worked with the Universitat de València on the Catalan translation of the training content of the exhibition in order to promote its use in various educational contexts. Anyone who wants to can consult and download it.
A key role for libraries
The IFLA MLCE Guidelines conclude that despite their high levels of exposure to technology, many young people are often unaware of its ethical implications, environmental impact or how the systems that sustain it operate.
They also highlight the key role of libraries as spaces for digital learning and participation, which are able to convey this content to citizens and foster critical thinking.