The difference between the two concepts is that technological literacy is the ability to use modern devices. In contrast, technical fluency consists of understanding technologies’ development and their impact on society. It is vital to let students use the technologies in a learning process as they develop themselves and understand how essential a technological breakthrough is. Modern school education does not fully allow students to become technologically fluent. It is necessary to allow students to express themselves more by performing various projects and assignments using modern technologies.
Nathan shows the difference between the two concepts by drawing a parallel with the study and fluency of the Spanish language. He argues that teachers are not required to own technology at the highest level. They should strive to learn this together with students and be attentive to them. Stimulate their technological development and participate in all aspects of the student’s path to fluency in technology. There are ways to promote students’ mastery of technology, and one of them is to instill in students a desire to learn. Teachers need to find practical ways to encourage fluency in technology in the learning environment.
Tyler argues that technological literacy is the ability to use technology, while fluency in technology is a deep understanding of it and the future it brings to society. Teachers want students to be fluent in technology and be curious about learning. Curiosity gives motivation, which adds chances for mastering the topic. Moreover, Tyler describes six skills: identification, internalization, feedback, diagnosis, invention, and mindfulness. He demonstrates practical examples of each skill and argues that their application is vital to help the student master technology. Teachers do not allow students to master technology. He suggests creating after-school clubs where children could enroll to improve their skills in technology.
Carrie believes that technology has become a part of everyone’s daily life, and people should know how to interact with them genuinely. Educators should allow students to interact with technology correctly and ensure that they become innovators in the future. Teachers should develop learning strategies that motivate students to be curious about finding and learning information independently. With the help of STEM learning, students have the opportunity to demonstrate the results of their knowledge. It is necessary to make an educational reform that will discard the old standards of lessons and affirm students’ curiosity, innovation, and individual achievements.
Lindsey argues that a technologically literate person just understands what technology is and how to use it. Fluency in technology is the ability to explore the relationship between people and computers and understand how the impact of technology on society. Teachers need to help students understand how they will use and develop what they are learning and how it will be applicable in their future careers. Moreover, parents should help teachers by gathering knowledge, understanding, and involvement. Lindsey offers teachers to become coaches, and students to become their partners for more productive learning.
Holly claims that technology literacy is the ability to use technology and understand how they work, while technology fluency is knowing how and when to use it. Parents should complete the following four steps: recognition, attention evaluation, and participation. She states that parents should help students develop a sense of wonder and curiosity that makes them want to learn. For example, gamification stimulates motivation by focusing on rewards. Besides, she thinks that teachers allow students to be fluent in technology through technology in the classroom and to complete assignments at home.
Amanda states that the difference between the two skill levels comes down to the level of experience. Teachers should adapt their teaching to the students’ culture, saturated with technological expertise, and use technologies as a motivator. Platforms such as IReady and MOOC allow students to try out technologies professionally, which increases their desire to use them in the future. The job of educators is to promote technological capabilities and eliminate barriers that students may encounter.