Marylanders Online Launches Digital Navigation Training Toolkit
Marylanders Online has unveiled a groundbreaking resource for digital literacy education: the Marylanders Online Navigator Training Toolkit (MONET). This module-based train-the-trainer course is designed to equip digital navigators with essential skills needed to bridge the digital divide in their communities. MONET is currently accessible to digital navigators based in Maryland, with future plans for an open-source curriculum that will be made available on the University of Maryland's Canvas open learning platform.
Origins and Collaboration
MONET evolved from the Pratt Adventure & Beyond program, a collaborative project between Marylanders Online - a University of Maryland Extension digital literacy initiative in partnership with the College of Information - and Baltimore City's Enoch Pratt Free Library. The original Pratt Adventure curriculum was developed to build the digital navigation skills of Pratt’s library-based digital navigators. This specially curated curriculum involved ten training modules on basic computer skills, internet navigation, and the use of digital tools relevant to the digital needs of Baltimore residents.
After receiving praise from numerous conference presentations, the INFO team responded to a growing need for localized digital navigation programs by refining and adapting Pratt into its new public-facing format: MONET. This evolution reflects the curriculum's adaptability and effectiveness in addressing digital literacy challenges. The MONET curriculum has the potential to benefit communities throughout the state of Maryland - and beyond.
Key Features
Customizable Content
MONET's curriculum is highly flexible, allowing organizations to tailor the training to their community. This adaptability ensures that the modules can be effectively implemented across various community settings, from libraries and schools to community and senior centers.
Comprehensive Digital Navigation Training
MONET covers a wide range of foundational digital literacy topics, including:
- Computers and operating systems
- Internet and web browsing, and email
- Online Safety
- Telehealth
- Email and communications
- Remote working and learning
- Device selection guidance
- Basic technical support skills
The curriculum consists of a series of ten self-paced online modules designed to equip current and prospective digital navigators with the essential tools and skills needed to effectively teach digital literacy and provide tech support within their communities.
Continuous Improvement
MONET will continue to undergo regular refinement based on user feedback. Users are encouraged to contribute to the toolkit's evolution by emailing suggestions to marylandersonline@umd.edu.
Accessibility and Implementation
MONET is freely available for public use, making it an invaluable resource for organizations seeking to enhance their digital literacy programs. Institutions interested in offering a customized version of MONET to their staff or as a certificate program with Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are invited to contact marylandersonline@umd.edu for further information.
By providing this comprehensive yet adaptable resource, Marylanders Online is taking a significant step toward promoting digital equity across the state. MONET empowers digital navigators to effectively support their communities in navigating the increasingly digital world, ensuring that no Marylander is left behind in the digital age.