Literacy and computer literacy: Definitions and comparisons

Abstract This paper analyzes the prevailing definitions of literacy and computer literacy. It is shown that similar factors confound our understanding of both these terms. In addition we argue that the term computer literacy is highly inappropriate. In order to clarify the meaning of these terms we suggest a hierarchy of definitions, from the operational level to the broader socio-political definitions. The paper proposes the following. Firstly a definition for the operational skills of reading and writing, for which Papert's term letteracy is used. Secondly a corresponding definition for the operational skills required to use a computer, for which the new term comperacy is proposed. Both these terms represent a continuum of skill levels and a classification for these levels is also developed. The paper concludes with an examination of the interdependencies between letteracy and comperacy which can serve as the first step in a broader analysis of the relationship between literacy and computer literacy.

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