When discussing digital inequities and access challenges, the conversation most often veers toward issues such as income disparities and disabilities. But not every hurdle standing between students and digital equity is a technology that can be purchased or installed. Sometimes the biggest challenge is a lack of knowledge and training.

While certain populations, such as older students, are particularly prone to digital literacy gaps, younger students — including incoming freshmen — are also vulnerable. And for would-be graduates, it’s an issue that transcends their college learning experiences. According to a recent study by Capital One and Burning Glass Technologies, an estimated 4 million annual job postings require at least baseline technology skills, such as using spreadsheets and word processing programs.

To realize the full potential of technology in higher education, institutional leaders must develop comprehensive strategies that empower all students, faculty and staff to become digitally literate. Here are some tips to overcome common roadblocks to digital literacy.

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The Checklist

Identify your at-risk groups.
Certain user groups are more likely to lack digital literacy, including older students and those with access to fewer resources. By determining what percentage of your users might lack technology training, you can better predict the resources needed...