2026-2027 School Year

Digital Literacy for Middle School SPT

Tuesdays AND Thursdays

Course Description

Digital Literacy is the ability to navigate our digital world using a multitude of skills to communicate proficiently and effectively. It is important for students to be properly equipped to use digital tools and technologies in order to operate in this digital society.

This course is an elective and is to be considered for students who would like to gain experience with Google Workspace as they utilize Drive, Docs, Slides, Sheets and more. In addition, students will use Common Sense Media lessons, which will be dedicated to digital etiquette with a focus on topics like online behavior, digital footprint, and media literacy.

In this course students will use technology to collaborate, evaluate, and creatively communicate information through different platforms. They will develop awareness of technology’s impact on both society and students while beginning to cultivate safe and manageable online habits. The exposure to digital skills in this course is a tool that supports student success.

 

To be successful in this class:

Students should come to class with needed supplies including a laptop or Chromebook; this device must have Wi-Fi and internet browsing capabilities.  Students must be ready to utilize critical thinking, work well collaboratively, participate, and follow directions. All assignments will be completed in class; however, unfinished assignments may need to be completed as homework prior to the next class.

Grades: 6th Grade, 7th Grade, 8th Grade

Course Tuition and Enrollment Fees can be found HERE. If applicable, see below for additional course fees (supply, lab, textbook, etc.)

Additional Course Fees: $5 materials fee

Required Materials

  • Laptop or Chromebook with Wi-Fi and internet browsing capability (iPads/tablets are not compatible with this course)
  • notebook
  • pencils

Meet Laura Erwin

Education: Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering from San Jose State University

Experience: Laura has tutored Math, Science, and SAT/ACT prep for Elementary through High School students and GED prep for adults since 1980. She has taught Math, Science, and Critical Thinking classes at home school co-ops since 2003.

Homeschooling Experience: She homeschooled her 3 sons from Kindergarten through High School.

UHC Courses Taught: Geometry; Physics; Conceptual Physics; SAT and ACT Prep (Math / Science); Computer Applications; Introduction to Computer Programming; Introduction to Computer Science; Introduction to Computer Applications and Programming; Consumer Math; Math Lab (both Middle School and High School); Pre-Algebra; Algebra 1; Earth Science; Digital Literacy

Began teaching at UHC in 2006.