About the Program

Our Digital Literacy Program helps students aged 18+ gain access to technology and learn the basic digital skills needed to succeed in an online world.  We offer instruction for basic computer skills, typing, online job applications and resumes, Microsoft Word and Excel, Google Docs, social media, Northstar certifications, and other online functions.

WHAT ARE THE QUALIFICATIONS TO BE A DIGITAL LITERACY TUTOR?

Volunteers must complete a Training Process which includes:

  • A 1.5 hour face-to-face Workshop orientation to the program
  • A 30 minute online Northstar Digital Assessment proctor certification training
  • A lab or class observation
  • Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and have completed high school.

Digital Literacy tutors need basic computer skills and the ability to communicate patiently and effectively with clients of varying backgrounds, learning styles, and abilities, but no previous teaching experience or advanced IT/coding skills are required.

WHERE DO WE MEET WITH OUR STUDENTS?

Our volunteers can teach in drop-in labs, specialized workshops, or structured curriculum classes. Tutoring can take place onsite at CFLC or at partner locations through our mobile computer lab (known as COWs – Computers on Wheels).

HOW MUCH TIME COMMITMENT IS REQUIRED?

The time commitment is flexible: lab and workshop volunteers can sign up for weekly opportunities as their schedule allows; class tutors commit to 4-8 week classes (1-3 hours/week).

HOW DO YOU MEASURE PROGRESS?

Many of our computer students have specific, “one-and-done” goals that they are trying to meet in a lab, such as creating a resume or filling out an online insurance claim, etc., so we measure progress with exit surveys at the end of class.

Students can also demonstrate progress with more long-term goals through our Northstar system, which offers pre/post assessments and certifications for various computer skills, such as email and internet searches, social media, Microsoft Word and Excel, and Internet Safety.  The Northstar system also has online curriculum modules with informal assessments that students can complete.

IS THERE A COST TO BE A TUTOR?

There is a $10 materials and certification fee.  To register, please go to our website at https://www.cfliteracy.org/volunteer/.  You can pay for the workshop online by using the link on the sign-up form or pay in person by cash or check at the orientation. 

If any of the above sounds daunting, remember: We offer excellent tutor training and provide continued support from the moment you become engaged with our program! Contact Delia Stanley, Digital Literacy Specialist, at dstanley@cfliteracy.org or call (910)251-0911 for additional assistance.