This first week explains what metaliteracy is and what it means to be a metaliterate learner in today’s collaborative information environment. The course materials in this section describe the concept and why it is important to learners who want to make the most out of their active involvement in social networking, social media, and online communities, as well as any context that includes social interaction. We discuss the need to work collaboratively in social environments and what it means to be a self-reflective learner. This first module prepares learners to think about their roles as critical thinkers and collaborative digital citizens capable of effectively navigating, creating, and sharing relevant information. We will also discuss how emerging technologies impact this process of discovery and participation.

This week explores the complex concept of social identity in the online environment. Content investigates the multi-faceted aspects of our online identities, and the important connected concept of personal privacy. Learners will not only research and analyze their own online persona, but they will also consider the social identity or identities of others. Metaliteracy promotes the production and distribution of digital information, while thinking critically about how we interact with others and present ourselves online.

This week explores intellectual property. It will challenge you to look critically at what you understand about intellectual property, and the basics of copyright and open access. Since metaliteracy encourages the creation of new information and repurposing of open content, we need to examine the ethical dimension of this work. Doing so will prepare you to expand your role as a digital citizen in changing information environments.

This week explores information ethics. Content includes the following topics, all of which are connected to a broad understanding of information ethics, including information use, and ethically remixing and sharing content. The module challenges you to look critically at what you understand about how you currently use, share, remix, and distribute information.