22 Jun Addressing digital gaps early
‘Digital literacy classes never run out of students’
The NSW Council for Adult Literacy and Numeracy started its 2026 professional learning series with a practical session on digital literacy in VET. Irma Djaya and Sally Hodgson, literacy teachers at TAFE NSW Randwick shared strategies from their classrooms.
It was an after‑hours, in‑person session and attendees from across sectors rated it highly for its relevance and practical value.
Responding to research by Deniese Cox, TAFE NSW Randwick is trialling digital orientation workshops for vocational students. Irma and Sally piloted the program for three vocational areas on their campus.
They designed short, hands‑on activities to help students get started, including:
- setting up an email signature
- replying to a teacher post in Teams
- creating folders in OneDrive
- completing a simple scavenger hunt in the learning platform.
Each task took about 15 minutes. Some students moved quickly; others needed more support. A small number couldn’t get started due to login issues or gaps in their digital skills.
What changed
- Students felt more prepared to study
- Vocational teachers gained clearer insight into follow up support needs.
The two teachers also talked about running individual programs supporting students with computers and individual programs using smartphones.
They advised that running individualised programs requires considerable effort, especially in the initial set up of students’ programs. Teachers need to prepare and adapt materials to meet a wide range of needs. Despite the workload, Irma and Sally felt that it is a highly effective approach for building digital skills.
What helps:
- Have an extra teacher in the room
- Avoid personal laptops—use standard devices
- Create resource templates to save time
- Link students with local libraries, councils and community centres
- Use online tools (including YouTube and AI) to support learning and planning.
Individual programs using smartphones
There are many advantages for the student in an individualised Smartphone class. These classes have proved very popular with consistently high enrolments and stable attendance. Students can: help shape what’s taught; build practical, everyday skills; gain confidence and learn from each other and expand social networks.
Like computer-based programs, these programs require strong planning and ongoing resource development. Having an extra teacher in the classroom is important. Other tips include:
- Provide access to both Android and iPhone devices
- Plan seating to support collaboration
- Use templates to streamline resources
- Connect with local community services
- Make the most of online tools (Google, YouTube, AI).