Teaching Students Responsible Digital Literacy

By: Dr. Maria Su

When my children were younger, I found myself searching for strategies for managing “digital parenting anxiety.” It can be challenging balancing adolescents’ need for digital literacy with worries about too much screen time or exposure to harmful information. 

My hope for my kids — and all SFUSD students—is for them to have the skills to make healthy online decisions, act responsibly with technology, and be able to discern false information. 

At SFUSD we are dedicated to making digital literacy part of literacy in general. With vast amounts of information available online, it's crucial for students to develop the ability to critically evaluate sources, identify misinformation, and discern credible content. Digital literacy encourages students to analyze, question, and think critically about the content they consume.

In fact, the SFUSD Graduate Profile has a goal related to responsible digital identity and the understanding of new technologies. Any student wishing to enter the workforce will be expected to work with technology and people. We want students to be tech savvy, but with critical thinking ability, and well-polished social skills. Conversations at home and at school are crucial for achieving the right mix of people skills and technology skills. 

Here are some resources for parents/guardians to help start conversations:

• Common Sense Media
• SFUSD’s Digital Agency Resources
• California State PTA

We also believe it’s important to support educators in teaching digital literacy in schools. That’s why we provide teachers with professional development and training in digital tools, resources, and strategies that enables them to effectively integrate technology into their lessons. 

Access to up-to-date educational technology and technical support helps ensure that teachers feel confident in navigating new platforms and teaching students essential digital skills. Additionally, fostering a collaborative community where educators can share best practices and resources further strengthens their ability to teach digital literacy in meaningful and engaging ways. 

Though it can make us anxious, technology should also be fun! Why not learn something together with your student or start a digital project together? February is Digital Learning Month and SFUSD’s Department of Technology has resources and ideas to help us celebrate.

Dr. Maria Su is Superintendent of the San Francisco Unified School District.