Program Goal: What will this initiative accomplish? What challenges will it mitigate/address?
What is the need in your community?
To develop an effective Digital Navigator plan, we need to understand and articulate the digital access and digital literacy needs of the community. To do so, draw on information about the general need for expanding the implementation of the Digital Navigator model mentioned in this guide. Then, make this relevant for your work by identifying the magnitude of the need for a Digital Navigator program in your community or program. For example, ask yourself (and others) questions like:
- What is the number of students without reliable access to the internet in your district9, or region?
- How many learner-workers in your program only have mobile phone access, what is their level of digital literacy or comfort using technology?
- What is their level of awareness, skills, agility, and confidence to be empowered users of new technologies
- Is the need widespread, or are particular demographics areas of your community most in need of support to cross digital divides?
In addition to the worksheet created by Arizona State Library, this community tool box by the University of Kansas can help you determine need in your community.
What is the purpose of your program?
Your program’s focus will depend on the community’s needs, organizational goals and priorities, and the capabilities and resources of your organization or community. The end goal of your program is to establish a Digital Navigator service that responds to the community’s needs and leverages the capabilities and resources.
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9 Created by Arizona State Library, this worksheet offers a structured process for collecting and sharing information about what the digital divide looks like in a geographic area.