digital navigators

Overview and Advanced Training Product

A digital navigator is a person trained to help their community get online through one-on-one tutoring or assistance. They may serve as digital technology coaches, employees in organizations such as libraries, community centers, healthcare clinics, public computer labs, schools, etc., and may also be known as digital inclusion ambassadors.

Navigators learn how to answer people’s questions about their internet and devices, so that they can provide tech support to those in need. Navigators are also trained to help folks sign up for low-cost internet through the Affordable Connectivity Program.

Because navigators work within their own community, they are trusted and reliable resources for the people that they serve.

Digital Navigators Training Series:

Part One (FREE): Learn everything you need about the digital divide and the important role of Digital Navigators in this overview training.

Part Two ($50): Become an Advanced Digital Navigator, so you’re prepared to help folks from a wide variety of backgrounds gain access to the internet, devices, and additional resources they may need.

Certificates will be awarded upon completion. Both trainings are self-guided and can be completed at one’s own pace.

Note: Part One is a prerequisite to Part Two.

You’ll learn how to:

Part One:

You will understand the important distinctions between the following: digital divide, digital equity, and digital inclusion.

As a Digital Navigator, this understanding will enable you to communicate effectively and respectfully with your learners.

This training provides detailed information about Digital Navigator roles, responsibilities, skill sets, and places within the digital inclusion ecosystem.

After reviewing key concepts of adult learning principles, you will be equipped with strategies to help you teach others.

We include helpful research articles, links to government resources, information about internet service providers, and other trustworthy resources.

This lesson provides practical ways to encourage safe and responsible use of the internet.

Become fully prepared to engage with community members. This training provides real-life examples of Digital Navigators at work, case studies illustrating digital inclusion principles, and information about shadowing others in the field.

The course includes useful links to government and non-profit resources, research, educational materials, and more. 

DIGITAL NAVIGATOR TRAINING – FREE

Part Two:

Discuss the potential benefits and challenges of increased digital connectivity, using a strengths-based perspective that honors the experience and resources of less connected communities.

Clearly define the role of Digital Navigators and their responsibilities, skills, workflows, and place in the digital inclusion ecosystem.

Conduct an intake interview to identify a learner or client’s current digital skills and resources, identify goals, and make a preliminary assessment of eligibility for programs such as the ACP.

Identify best practices in online safety and digital citizenship to encourage safe and responsible use of the internet by Digital Navigators and their learners.

Maintain case notes and other records to support learner progress and impact reporting.

Maintain appropriate professional boundaries and refer learners or clients out to other support resources for needs beyond the scope of the Digital Navigator role.

Locate and consult additional resources to remain up to date on best practices in the Digital Navigator community.

ADVANCED DIGITAL NAVIGATOR TRAINING – $50

For more information

For more information or to build your customized training program, reach out to us today: LIFT@communitytechnetwork.org

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