Digital Literacy
Digital literacy has become an essential skill set in today’s technology-driven society, reflecting the ability to effectively engage with digital technologies across various personal, professional, and civic contexts. Broadly defined, digital literacy encapsulates the skills needed to use, create, evaluate, and communicate information through digital tools safely and ethically. This includes not only basic computer literacy but also critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and the ability to navigate AI-driven systems and identify misinformation. With approximately 85% of jobs in the modern workforce requiring digital skills, the relevance of digital literacy continues to grow as foundational to education and economic success. Recent initiatives in educational frameworks, such as the European Union's DigComp, emphasize the ongoing development of digital competences, prioritizing the need for individuals to remain adaptable to the rapidly evolving digital landscape. Key components of digital literacy today involve not only technical skills required for operating digital devices but also cognitive skills for evaluating information and socio-emotional skills that facilitate responsible online interactions. Moreover, the integration of AI technologies in educational settings underscores the importance of digital fluency assessment and computer literacy training to equip learners with the tools necessary for informed participation in a digital society. In recent years, as digital citizenship has gained traction, the focus has shifted toward ensuring that learners—especially adults—possess comprehensive digital skills that support not only individual growth but also community engagement and social well-being. The emphasis on lifelong learning and adaptability highlights digital literacy as a critical competence needed to thrive in an interconnected world, making it fundamental for future success.
What does research show about the effects of social media on happiness?
Dr. Lyubomirsky explains that research on social media's impact on happiness shows mixed results. For people with unique conditions or challenges (like having a disabled child or being shy), online communities can be extremely beneficial by providing support and connection. However, studies also indicate that social media use can increase feelings of depression, as people tend to share only positive highlights of their lives, leading others to make unfavorable comparisons. The effects largely depend on how social media is used rather than simply whether it's used. Dr. Lyubomirsky emphasizes that moderation is key – invoking Aristotle's concept of the 'golden mean' – suggesting that balanced technology use is essential for maintaining well-being.
Watch clip answer (01:45m)
Pepperdine University
01:15:49 - 01:17:35
What is the current status of legislation regarding AI-generated content and likeness rights in the United States?
According to CBS News, there may be federal legislation coming in the United States to address AI-generated content and likeness rights, as highlighted in their discussion about the viral deepfake video featuring celebrities. However, an important challenge remains that while U.S. regulations are in development, the internet operates globally. This regulatory gap creates complications for effectively governing AI-generated content, as national legislation alone may have limited impact on a worldwide platform. The discussion points to the complex intersection of technology regulation and international governance in addressing deepfakes and protecting individuals' likeness rights.
Watch clip answer (00:07m)
CBS News
04:18 - 04:26
How can people spot AI-generated video content?
According to CBS News Executive Editor Rhona Tarrant, viewers should focus on details, particularly hand movements. In AI-generated videos, hands often display unnatural behaviors - such as fingers melting together during high-fives or characters having only three fingers. These anomalies occur because AI struggles with realistic detail rendering. Tarrant points to specific examples from a viral video where celebrities' hands unnaturally merge together and Steven Spielberg is depicted with finger distortions when touching his leg or running fingers through hair. Looking closely at these small details can help viewers identify manipulated content and distinguish between authentic and AI-generated videos.
Watch clip answer (00:38m)CBS News
01:51 - 02:30
How does Ground News help users become more politically aware?
Ground News helps users round out their reading by aggregating diverse news sources on trending topics like foreign policy, crime, and immigration. The platform features an issues tab that allows users to track what's trending each week, providing comprehensive coverage across the political spectrum. By exposing users to a variety of perspectives, Ground News enables better understanding of media bias and promotes critical news consumption. This tool is particularly valuable in today's polarized political landscape, empowering users to become more informed voters through access to balanced reporting on important topics.
Watch clip answer (00:14m)
Johnny Harris
14:48 - 15:02
Have you seen an increase in lawsuits against tech companies, especially when it comes to AI?
Absolutely. There's a rising trend in legal actions against tech companies related to AI, but it involves creative advocacy due to the lack of specific AI regulations in the United States. This regulatory gap has led advocates to look to European partners who now have an AI Act coming into force that works transnationally to address these issues. The tech industry remains uniquely positioned to evade accountability and transparency requirements despite its global nature. While companies operate internationally, regulations exist in national silos, creating significant challenges for effective oversight and accountability in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
Watch clip answer (00:50m)
Al Jazeera English
31:53 - 32:43
What are the main problems with alternative media according to critics in the media industry?
According to the discussion, alternative media faces significant structural problems primarily centered around accountability and quality control. The lack of gatekeeping mechanisms means there are no editorial standards or fact-checking processes that traditional media outlets typically maintain. This absence of oversight creates an environment where misinformation can spread unchecked, as many alternative media outlets prioritize profit generation over journalistic integrity. The result is a media landscape where content creators can disseminate unverified information without facing consequences, ultimately undermining the credibility of information available to the public and potentially distorting political discourse and societal narratives.
Watch clip answer (00:10m)
VICE News
00:54 - 01:05