• Digital Literacy Self-Assessment for Adult Education Professionals

    Developed by the SABES Program Support PD Team

  • Welcome!

  • This self-assessment is a quick way to think about the digital tools and practices you are already using and identify areas where you might want to grow next. Your reflection from this activity can help you plan your next professional learning steps.

  • While several skills outlined in this self-assessment tool focus on instructional practice, many of the core concepts can be easily translated for advisors and support staff. We encourage you to explore this resource even if you are not an instructor.

  • There are no right or wrong answers. Your honest input will guide you toward the most helpful resources in our Digital Skill Building Resource Collection.

  • For each statement, choose the answer that best describes your current confidence and regular practice.

    • "Not yet" means: This is a brand-new skill for me, or I cannot do this yet.
    • "I'm learning" means: I can do this sometimes, but I need help.
    • "I'm comfortable" means: I can do this confidently and use it regularly in my work.
    • "I'm confident" means: I can do this easily and could show a colleague how to do it.

  • For help using this self-assessment, please reach out to the SABES Program Support PD Team. For information on upcoming professional development opportunities, please visit the SABES website.

  • Section 1: Foundational and Professional Practice

  • This section focuses on foundational skills that are used in most programs and workplaces.
  • I know how to check if my computer or phone needs an update, and I feel confident performing updates when prompted.*
  • I can manage my work email, including sending attachments and using professional etiquette.*
  • I use strong passwords and feel confident recognizing suspicious links.*
  • I can easily create, format, and save documents using Word or Google Docs.*
  • I have a clear system for saving and finding files in the cloud (like Google Drive or OneDrive).*
  • I use search engines effectively to find credible and refined information for my work.*
  • I am mindful of my digital footprint and understand how to maintain professional privacy online.*
  • I can design activities that help students adapt to new tools rather than just teaching one app.*

  • Section 2: Planning and Preparation for Technology Integration

  • This section focuses on designing technology-enriched lessons.
  • I can use technology to enhance my lessons, rather than just using a screen to replace a piece of paper.*
  • I use specific criteria to check if a digital tool is effective and appropriate for my students.*
  • I design digital materials (like handouts or slides) with accessibility needs in mind.*
  • I can translate in-person activities into effective remote or digital formats.*
  • I use digital tools to maintain regular, proactive outreach to my students.*
  • I use digital polls or quizzes to check student understanding during a lesson.*
  • I can assess a student’s digital readiness and help them onboard to the tech used in my class.*

  • Section 3: Execution and Impact of Technology Integration

  • This section focuses on delivering technology-enriched content.
  • I can design a complete learning program using technology that helps my students become independent learners and stay motivated even if we aren’t in the same room.*
  • I am exploring how to use Generative AI responsibly for teaching or administrative tasks.*
  • I teach my students how to protect their privacy and be respectful digital citizens.*
  • I guide students to use resources (like Northstar) to track and build their own digital skills independently.*
  • I consider student barriers to internet or device access and help them find equitable solutions.*

  • Thank you for completing this professional reflection!

  • By honestly reflecting on your practice, you've taken the most important step toward strengthening technology integration into your instruction.

  • Based on your responses, we have identified some specific areas in our Digital Skill Building Resource Collection that might be the most helpful next steps for your professional growth.

  • Go on to the next page to see your personalized results.

  • Your recommended focus areas are:

  • Foundational Computer Skills. Follow the link for resources on how to keep your computer running smoothly.

  • Email Foundations. Follow the link for resources on how to set up and use your email.

  • Password Safety. Follow the link for resources on creating a strong password.

  • Word Processing. Follow the link for resources on creating, formatting, and sharing documents. 

  • File and Cloud Organization. Follow the link for resources on saving, finding, and organizing files.

  • Searching and Research. Follow the link for resources on refining your online research and finding credible information.

  • Social Media and Professionalism. Follow the link for resources on managing your online reputation and privacy settings. 

  • Digital Resilience. Follow the link for resources on supporting learners in becoming nimble users of technology.

  • Technology Integration. Follow the link for resources on planning technology-infused lessons.

  • Digital Tool Evaluation. Follow the link for resources on vetting the effectiveness of different websites and apps.

  • Virtual Instruction Strategies. Follow the link for resources on transferring in-person teaching practices to remote formats.

  • Accessibility. Follow the link for resources on designing digital learning experiences and materials that are accessible.

  • Learner Communication. Follow the link for resources on establishing strong communication practices between you and your learners.

  • Assessment and Feedback. Follow the link for resources on using digital tools to check for understanding.

  • Intake and Screening. Follow the link for resources on assessing student digital readiness and onboarding learners to technology.

  • Designing Digital Learning Experiences. Follow the link for resources on effectively facilitating learning in a virtual environment.

  • Generative AI. Follow the link for resources on using generative AI for teaching and administrative tasks.

  • Digital Citizenship. Follow the link for resources on preparing learners to use digital tools safely, effectively, and appropriately.

  • Promoting Learner Autonomy. Follow the link for resources on supporting your learners' independent digital literacy study.

  • Digital Equity. Follow the link for resources on helping your students access low-cost devices and connectivity.

  • If no specific links appeared in this section, it means you've got quite advanced digital skills! Explore SABES' Digital Skills Resource Collection for your next challenge

  • What’s Next?

  • 1. Save your results. Save these links where you will not lose them, or reach out to the SABES Program Support PD Team for a copy of your results.

  • 2. Explore the Resource Collection. Identify topics and resources that resonate with you and your existing PD goals. 

  • 3. Make a plan. On your own or with support (such as your program's instructional leader or a SABES coach), use your results to set one or more SMART goals. Share your results and plan!

  • You don't have to do everything at once! Start with one topic that excites you, or one resource that feels manageable.

  • The SABES Digital Literacy PD Pathway can offer you further guidance on professional development in this area. Explore the pathway on the SABES website!

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