Digital Capabilities
How to improve your digital capabilities?
During your time at the University of Reading, you will have many opportunities to develop your digital capabilities. Digital capabilities are the set of skills and knowledge you need to use digital tools in your studies and in society, as well as your approach to the critical and responsible use of digital tools and their application to your learning.
This includes researching and creating assignments, taking lecture notes, managing your time, and taking care of your wellbeing. Developing these skills is crucial for your academic success, career and personal growth. Are you able to access the information you need through University learning systems, the Library, and online? Are you able to spot a suspicious email and take appropriate action to protect yourself? Can you reduce online distractions, and work out when you need support to learn more about an online tool? Could you explain your digital and IT skills to a potential employer?
You will be developing your digital capabilities throughout your studies, learning from your lecturers and tutors. Below, you will find a list of a range of support services who can help you to learn even more.
Services available to you
Contact your Academic Liaison Librarian
Study Advice guides
Digital Study Skills guide
LinkedIn Learning courses recommended by the Careers team
RED Award
Digital Tools including online test practice
The Digital Research Computing Team provide academic computing support to student researchers at the University of Reading. Training, online guides and more resources are available on the Academic Computing Team website to support with access to University research data storage, Linux computing platforms and other academic computing services. The team also run regular in-person training and drop-in sessions, which can be found in the training and drop-in calendar.
DTS can support you with access to software such as Microsoft Office 365, help using the Wi-Fi on campus, cybersecurity and secure passwords and more. You can access support online through guides and webpages, and ask for help via email or at the in-person enquiry desk on the first floor of the Library.
IT Help and Support overview
Some programmes within Henley Business School have introduced Jisc’s Discovery Tool to help you identify your digital competencies and development needs. You will be directed to a dedicated Blackboard area which signposts you to the resources and tools of the Jisc framework, and further online resources. Whilst the Jisc framework was introduced as a pilot with selected programmes there are plans for it to be implemented across the rest of the School.
LinkedIn Learning is provided by the University and gives you free access to a range of online videos and courses on a range of topics from using specific software (Word, PowerPoint, Excel), to creative tools. You can connect your learning to your LinkedIn profile, and showcase completed courses and skills to potential employers, or use the platform to expand your own knowledge and understanding.
If you're not sure where to start, DTS prepared a LinkedIn Learning Challenge for students.
Learn more about digital services at the University of Reading