Response to the Future Humanities Workforce

Content of the response

The concept of Digital Dexterity, which has been a key focus of CAUL’s work over the past two years[1], offers insight into the knowledge, skills and capabilities that the future workforce will require. Having these capabilities will allow graduates in all disciplines, including the humanities, to contribute to the data and digital literacy agenda and meet the social, economic and environmental challenges of the future.

The concept of Digital Dexterity builds on digital literacy. It is a critical component in the success of digital societies: digital dexterity encompasses the “cognitive ability and social practice needed to leverage and employ various types of media, information and technology for advantage in unique and highly innovative ways that optimise personal and business value”[2].

CAUL has extended this definition to include active participation in all aspects of work and life in a digital world, so that people develop the skills, knowledge and understanding to help them live, learn and work in a digital society. A framework[3], based on the Jisc Digital capabilities framework[4], outlines the skills and capabilities that students will need to succeed in the workforce of the future.

We encourage the Academy to adopt the Digital Dexterity concept and framework when recommending solutions for training Australia’s humanities workforce. We would also welcome the opportunity to work with the Academy to explore how university libraries can collaborate with the humanities in this endeavour.

Download the full response (pdf, 6/6/19)

[1] https://www.caul.edu.au/about-caul/communities/digital-dexterity-community-practice

[2] https://www.gartner.com/doc/3084618/defining-digital-dexterity--core

[3] https://www.caul.edu.au/sites/default/files/documents/digital-dexterity/digdex2019framework.pdf

[4] http://repository.jisc.ac.uk/6611/1/JFL0066F_DIGIGAP_MOD_IND_FRAME.PDF