Understanding the Digital Capability Framework: Using Technology
This article is the fourth instalment in a six-part series exploring the Digital Capability Framework (DCF). Developed by Health Education and Improvement Wales (HEIW), the DCF is made up of six domains and a self-assessment tool. It supports healthcare professionals in recognising the importance of digital technology and identifying areas for digital growth.
Advancing digital skills when working in a healthcare setting is vital, not only for personal development in an increasingly digital world but also for improving patient care. As technology evolves, it is essential for healthcare professionals to build the confidence and expertise needed to integrate it effectively into practice.
This series provides a detailed examination of each DCF domain, highlighting its importance and impact.
The Using Technology domain contains three sub domains:
- Foundation skills
- Digital tools
- Productivity
This domain focuses on the effective use of appropriate devices, applications, software and services. It emphasises the importance of developing foundation digital skills, adopting new technologies, resolving technical issues, and enhancing productivity through effective use of digital tools.
Foundation Skills
The Foundation Skills subdomain focuses on building essential digital skills. It starts with learning how to use devices like computers, smartphones, and tablets. This helps individuals develop from not using any digital devices, to confidently navigating multiple devices to support their role and career aspirations. Understanding the basics of being online is also crucial. It involves recognising the opportunities available and developing a broad understanding of the skills needed to engage effectively in digital environments.
Knowing how to seek help for technical issues is another important aspect. Initially, this might involve asking questions and seeking assistance from others. Over time, individuals can develop the technical knowledge needed to troubleshoot and resolve problems independently, which enhances their confidence.
These foundation skills are essential for navigating the digital world, helping individuals leverage digital technologies for personal and professional growth while adapting to the rapidly changing digital landscape.
Digital Tools
The Digital tools subdomain focuses on using initiative to make effective use of new technologies. For example, adopting new technologies involves moving from a state of disinterest to actively seeking out and integrating new devices, applications, software, and services to support ways of working. This extends beyond personal adoption to providing guidance to others, ensuring digital tools are utilised effectively by everyone.
Fixing problems is another important aspect, where people learn to solve technical issues. This starts with basic problem-solving and grows into the ability to suggest solutions and help others with their technical issues. These skills are necessary for maximising the use of digital tools.
Understanding computing concepts is about moving from basic knowledge of computers to a deeper understanding of areas such as coding and data management. This includes, where appropriate and relevant, knowing how computers work, learning the basics of programming, and understanding how to handle information. Having this knowledge and understanding helps people use technology more effectively and facilitates new ideas and ways of working in both their personal and professional lives.
Overall, the digital tools subdomain highlights the importance of staying up to date with new technologies, learning to solve problems, and understanding how computers work. These skills are essential to make the best use of digital tools and encourage continuous learning and innovation.
Productivity
The Productivity subdomain focuses on how digital technology can change personal and professional life. For example, understanding the impact of digital technology involves seeing how digital tools affect our daily routines and work practices. This starts with relying on others for guidance and evolves into leading efforts to stay updated with technology.
Evaluating tools is another important area, where people learn to choose the best tools and technologies for different tasks. This includes adapting these tools to meet personal needs, ensuring they are used effectively to boost productivity.
Working fluently focuses on the ability to use a combination of digital tools and technologies to complete complex tasks. This skill set includes leading and promoting the use of digital devices, software, and applications within an organisation, fostering a culture of innovation and improvement.
Overall, the Productivity subdomain emphasises understanding the impact of digital technology, choosing the right tools, and working seamlessly across multiple platforms. These skills are essential for maximising productivity and driving success in both personal and professional settings.
Your next step
Getting started with developing your online communication skills can be daunting.
A great first step is to complete the Digital Capability Framework (DCF) self-assessment tool.
The tool will help prompt you to consider your current digital skills and signpost bite-size resources to help kick start your development.
It takes approximately one hour to complete the DCF, which you work through at your own pace, at a time to suit you. Your progress will be saved along the way, so you can pause and go back to it as often as you need.
Many professions recognise this activity by providing an hour of certified continuing professional development (CPD) for completion.
Visit the HEIW website to learn more.