What kind of training do digital navigators need?
The Center for Digital Churches will provide former training for Digital Navigators/Disciples. We will follow the establish guidelines created by the “National Digital Inclusion Alliance”. Successful digital navigators often have a background in customer service, interest and/or involvement in their community, strong communication skills, ability to be resourceful, empathetic and have a good sense of humor.
Generally, digital navigators should have some training in the following areas:
- Orientation to Digital Inclusion including an understanding of digital inclusion barriers and available community resources
- Data & Research
- Understanding of Community Groups being served & their Needs
- Digital Skills, Resources & Frameworks
- Internet Options & the Affordable Connectivity Program
- Asset Mapping & Resources
- Knowledge on how to assess what types of internet enabled devices community members need
- Customer service training
Digital navigators address the whole digital inclusion process — home connectivity, devices, and digital skills — with community members through repeated interactions.
Navigators can be volunteers, cross-trained existing staff, or dedicated new hires who offer guidance on connectivity, devices, and digital skills. Typically at trusted community-based organizations, digital navigators are familiar with their community’s resources related to digital equity, and they help residents learn to use critical online services. They recommend resources and check back with the client over time to ensure they can reach their goals.
With on-demand services or through appointments, digital navigators support both urgent needs and long-term goals. Most digital navigators provide general support, and some offer specialized support for specific topics, such as healthcare, and for specific populations, including people with disabilities, returning citizens, higher education students, and caregivers to K-12 students.
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