D1.1 A Conversation for the Future

Instructions for Exploring Lesson
In this lesson, you have the opportunity to read one or more stories, each focusing on key digital literacies. You may choose to read as many stories as you like, depending on your interest and the time available. Each story integrates specific digital literacies that will help you enhance your skills in today’s digital world.

1. A Conversation for the Future
2. Navigating the Future of Tech
3. Empowering Through Code and Creation
4. Using Research and Leverage to Building Digital Futures

Feel free to explore as many stories as you like, and be sure to apply what you’ve learned to your projects and personal growth. Once you are done, go through the lesson overview and move on to complete Steps 1-5. Note: This lesson may take more than one sitting to complete. So keep in mind to pace yourself, save your work as you go and set time aside to revisit the lesson as needed.

Story 1: ​A Conversation for the Future

A group of women working together in a library, using digital tools to collaborate and share ideas. This image highlights the power of digital literacy and teamwork in a learning environment.

A group of young girls and their mothers sat in a brightly lit room, ready to learn from some of the most innovative professionals in tech. Tia, a Product Solutions Manager & Web Development Instructor, opened the session with a big smile.

Tia: “Alright, ladies, today we’re diving into the world of Digital Literacies. It's about understanding and using technology in ways that help us grow, create, and connect with others. Now, I know that word might sound fancy, but trust me, it's not as complicated as it seems. Let's break it down and explore it through some real-world stories from the people in this room.”

Jazmin, a MarTech Publicist, raised her hand, eager to chime in.

Jazmin: “Digital literacies are a lot about being flexible, y’know? I remember when I first started, everything was about adapting. When I was a kid, I spoke Spanish, and when I came to school, I had to learn English—just like how I had to learn tech skills later. I had to adapt to this whole new language, not just of words, but of technology. I didn’t just learn English; I had to learn how to use the internet, how to message, how to email. And I had to keep that mindset—always adapting to whatever tech comes next.”

The girls nodded, some of their mothers glancing over, intrigued by how Jazmin had connected language learning with digital fluency. Tia smiled at Jazmin’s point and turned the conversation to the next theme.

Tia: “Exactly, Jazmin. You’ve got to keep adapting. But sometimes, adapting means you have to be willing to try new things, right? And that's something we all can do. Nicole, you wanna jump in here?”

Nicole Bakula, a UX Researcher, leaned forward, a thoughtful expression on her face.

Nicole: “Yeah, absolutely. You see, trying different things is key. Like, I remember when I was working on a project for a startup in Puerto Rico. I didn't know much about the tools they were using, but I didn’t let that stop me. I decided to try things out on my own. I learned about new platforms, tested out designs, and kept an open mind. When you're in tech, you have to get comfortable with uncertainty. Trying new things gives you a chance to see what works, what doesn't, and what might be the next big thing.”

Tia nodded, then added, “That’s the spirit. It’s like when we try new software or learn to use new social media platforms. You might not be great at first, but as long as you’re trying and learning, you're on the right track.”

Ebony, a grassroots organizer, jumped in, excited to contribute.

Ebony: “Yeah, I love what both of y’all are saying. When you’re doing digital marketing for an event or campaign, you’ve gotta be willing to try different approaches. Just like when we set up that virtual event for a community initiative, it was a huge learning curve. But we couldn’t just rely on what we knew. We had to experiment with different platforms, tools, and methods. We had to keep testing and changing things until it worked. And it was all about adapting to new tech and trying out ways to make it work for our audience.”

Jaleesa, a Digital Marketing Campaign Manager & Research Scientist, smiled at Ebony’s point and added her thoughts.

Jaleesa: “I totally agree. Trying new things is also about learning and growing. There’s always something new to try, whether it's new tools for digital marketing or something as simple as changing up the way we create content. For me, I’ve learned that you can’t be afraid to fail, especially when you're using tech in new ways. You’ve got to embrace it, test, and improve.”
Tia smiled at the group, feeling the energy in the room.

Tia: “This is exactly it! Now, let’s talk about implementing. When you’ve adapted and tried different things, the next step is to actually implement what you’ve learned. Tia’s always talking about this, right?”

Tia grinned, always ready to share her passion for implementation.

Tia: “Yep! Implementing is the part where you take everything you’ve learned and make it happen. Whether you’re launching a website, starting a campaign, or trying out new tech tools, you have to make it work. For example, last year, I taught a webinar on Google Analytics. It was super technical, but I took everything I learned and applied it. I didn’t just listen to the theory. I went out there, started using it, and tested it. And now, it’s one of the most powerful tools in my toolbox. You can’t learn if you don’t implement. You’ve got to take action!”

Nicole smiled, proud of Tia’s enthusiasm, and added her own twist.

Nicole: “For me, it’s about refining the process. After I try new things, I take what works and use it in my work. I always say, ‘Don’t just keep learning—implement and improve.’ For example, when I started researching UX for mobile apps, I didn’t just read the books—I went out, applied what I learned, and tested it on users. That's when it clicked for me—only when I implemented what I learned did I truly understand the process.”

Sharlene, the Founder of a Cultural Sensitivity Marketing Firm, nodded thoughtfully.

Sharlene: “You know, I didn’t have a tech background when I started. I had to fake it ‘til I made it, honestly. My first job was in publishing, and when I got there, they handed me a computer. I didn’t even know how to use it! But I had to learn quickly. From there, I implemented everything I learned in digital marketing. I built websites, managed campaigns, and now, I’m helping other businesses do the same. I can’t tell you how important it is to try, adapt, and implement. Without that, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

The group of girls and their mothers were soaking it all in, and Tia smiled warmly at them.

Tia: “That’s why we’re all here, ladies. To teach you how to adapt to the digital world, try new things, and implement them confidently. Technology can seem overwhelming, but it’s all about learning how to use it in your favor. You can adapt, try, and implement too.”
Jazmin leaned in and offered one final piece of advice.

​Jazmin: “And don’t forget, learning never stops. Whether you're a professional or just starting out, stay curious, stay adaptable, and always try new things. It’s what’ll keep you ahead.”

Tia: “Exactly. Digital literacies aren’t just about being good with tech. They’re about staying flexible, staying excited to learn, and being ready to make things happen. So, who’s ready to implement something new today?”

The room buzzed with energy as the girls and their mothers began brainstorming ideas for their first digital projects, feeling empowered to step into the future with confidence.

Story 2: Navigating the Future of Tech

A team of professional women collaborating in a modern office environment, using digital tools and data visualization to drive innovation and creativity. This image highlights the intersection of technology, design, and teamwork in a contemporary workspace.

The meeting room buzzed with energy as the group of professionals gathered around the table, each one representing a different facet of the digital world. It was time to plan the next steps for the Black-Liberation.Tech Open Educational Resource (OER), and everyone had something to say. Tia, the Product Solutions Manager, kicked things off, her voice filled with excitement.

Tia: "Alright, y'all, I think we’re all in agreement that digital literacies need to be the heart of our next set of lessons, right? We want our participants to get hands-on experience with tools and platforms that'll help them thrive in today's tech world. We’ve got to teach them to publish, pivot, and analyze — those are the big three, no doubt."

Nicole Bakula, the UX Researcher, nodded thoughtfully.

Nicole Bakula: "Absolutely. Publishing is huge. We need our students to understand how they can create and share their own digital content — whether it's a blog post, a video, or a social media campaign. It’s about empowering them to put their work out there, to claim their space in the digital world."

​Jazmin, the MarTech Publicist, leaned forward, her experience in marketing and storytelling coming through in her words.

Jazmin: "But here's the thing: publishing isn't just about creating stuff. It’s also about getting it out there in a way that speaks to the audience. I've had to adapt to new tools all the time, whether it’s social media platforms or content creation software. And it’s not always smooth sailing. I’ve learned to pivot fast — especially when things don’t go as planned. It’s all about being flexible."

Ebony, the Grassroots Organizer, chimed in from across the table.

Ebony: "That’s real, Jazmin. And what you said about pivoting really hits home. We need our girls to understand that the tech landscape is always changing. One minute, something’s trending, and the next minute, it's out of style. I think a big part of digital literacy is knowing how to adapt quickly — like when Facebook wasn’t cutting it anymore, and we had to jump on Instagram and Twitter."

Sharlene, Founder of a Cultural Sensitivity Marketing Firm, smiled, recalling her early days in publishing.

Sharlene: "I’ve been in this game a long time, y’all. I remember when the internet was still new. My first job in publishing? I had no idea how to use a computer. It was embarrassing, but it pushed me to learn. You gotta be willing to fail forward and try new things, just like Tia said. It’s not enough to just know how to publish — you’ve got to be able to pivot with the times."

Njoki, a Digital Marketing Advisor, picked up on Sharlene's point.

Njoki: "And that brings us to analysis, right? You can’t just publish and pivot without understanding what’s working and what’s not. You need to analyze the data — track engagement, measure success, and figure out where to adjust. Whether you’re looking at website analytics or social media insights, being able to analyze data will set you apart in the tech world."

Dominique, a Software Engineer, leaned back in their chair, thinking about the technical side of things.

Dominique: "Right, analyzing data isn’t just for marketers. As a software engineer, I’m always looking at how users interact with the tools I build. The data tells you a lot about what’s working and what needs fixing. Same goes for the girls we’re teaching. They need to understand that data isn't just numbers. It’s information they can use to make decisions and improve their work."

Jaleesa, the Digital Marketing Campaign Manager & Research Scientist, took out her phone and pulled up some analytics.

Jaleesa: "Exactly. And that’s why we need to teach our girls how to analyze digital interactions and use those insights to improve. Like, when I run a campaign, I’m constantly looking at the numbers — what times are people engaging? What kind of posts are they responding to? If you can’t analyze, you can’t grow."
The group went silent for a moment, each member thinking about the lessons that were about to unfold. The power of digital literacies — publishing, pivoting, and analyzing — was clear. But the challenge was in translating these concepts into actionable lessons for the after-school program participants.

Tia: "So, here’s what I’m thinking. For the publishing part, we can get the girls to create their own blog posts or videos on a topic they care about. They’ll learn how to use platforms like WordPress or YouTube, and understand the importance of consistency in publishing content."

Nicole Bakula: "And for pivoting, I’d love to see them experiment with different digital tools. Let them try a few different apps — maybe a new photo editor, or a new video editing tool. Have them document their learning process and what works for them. They’ll see how pivoting to a different tool can improve their work."

Jazmin: "For analysis, we can give them some real-world case studies. Show them how companies track digital metrics and how those metrics shape marketing decisions. Then, we can have them analyze their own content, track engagement, and adjust their strategy based on what they find."

Sharlene: "We also have to remember that the digital world is constantly evolving. We need to teach them to be resilient, to have that mindset where they’re always ready to try something new and embrace change. That’s how they’ll keep up with tech."

Dominique: "That’s key. They have to be comfortable with failure, too. When something doesn’t work, they need to pivot and analyze what went wrong, and figure out how to improve. Failure isn’t the end; it’s part of the process."

Jaleesa: "And through all this, we need to keep it real. These lessons should reflect the lived experiences of our girls, especially in communities of color. They should see how digital literacies are not just about tech skills — they’re about having the agency to create, adapt, and thrive in a digital world that often overlooks them."
The group nodded in agreement. They all had their roles to play, but together, they were building something much larger than just a curriculum. They were giving young Latinas and Black girls the tools they needed to navigate a digital world that could both empower and challenge them.

​Tia: "Alright, team. We’ve got our work cut out for us, but I think we’re on the right track. Let’s make sure we’re teaching them how to publish, pivot, and analyze. That’s how we’ll set them up for success in the digital age."

​The conversation flowed seamlessly as they continued to refine their plans. Each voice, unique in its perspective, came together to create a vision that was both practical and aspirational — a blueprint for empowering the next generation of Latinas and Black women in tech leadership roles.
And as they wrapped up the meeting, one thing was clear: digital literacies were not just skills. They were tools for liberation.

Story 3: ​Empowering Through Code & Creation

A virtual meeting with a group of women professionals in tech, including CTOs, Data Scientists, and Founders, collaborating from different locations. This image showcases the power of digital communication and women leading in the tech industry.

The conference call room was filled with the faces of funders, each eager to hear how the team of experts planned to empower young girls and their mothers through the Black-Liberation.Tech Open Educational Resource. At the forefront of the conversation was Tia, the Product Solutions Manager & Web Development Instructor, who was leading the discussion on how digital literacies—specifically code and creation—would form the foundation of their after-school program.

Tia: "Alright, y'all, let’s get this show on the road. We’re here today to talk about how we plan to use digital literacies, specifically code and create, to make a lasting impact on the girls and their mothers. This isn’t just about learning tools; it’s about giving them the power to control their own digital worlds. We’re going to teach them to code, build websites, create digital content—stuff that’ll help them build their futures. But, we need the right tools to make it happen."
She shared her excitement as she introduced the team, each expert bringing a unique perspective on the importance of these literacies.

Nicole Bakula, the UX Researcher, was quick to jump in.

Nicole Bakula: "As someone who’s been deep in the UX space, I can tell you—learning to code was a game-changer for me. It wasn’t just about writing HTML as a teenager for fun; it sparked my interest in creating digital experiences that people could use and enjoy. And that’s the mindset we need to teach these girls. We’re not just teaching them to write lines of code; we’re teaching them to design their digital lives—whether they’re making a website or even a digital brand."

Jazmin, the MarTech Publicist, nodded in agreement.

​Jazmin: "Exactly, Nicole. And once they learn the code, they need to know how to create with it. We’re talking about creating digital content—from social media posts to full-fledged websites—that will allow them to build their own brands. It’s important they understand that they can be creators, not just consumers. I mean, I work in digital marketing every day. I know how crucial it is to brand yourself. And it’s something that can change your whole trajectory."

Nadine, the UX Designer, added, "When we talk about creation, I think it's essential that they not only understand how to use the tools, but why certain designs work better for certain audiences. They need to know how to create for a digital environment, whether it’s making an interactive website or designing a brand's visual identity. It’s about building confidence through creating."

Ebony, the Grassroots Organizer, leaned forward, her passion for community work evident in her words.

Ebony: "I love the idea of bringing mothers into this too. It’s not just the girls who need these skills—it’s the whole family. Teaching them how to create content, use digital platforms for advocacy, or even just managing their online presence is going to be so valuable. These skills will help them in the workforce, and they’ll see the direct impact in their day-to-day lives, too."

Tia: "Exactly, Ebony. So, as we plan these lessons, we’re making sure we have everything in place. First, we’ll need laptops and internet access. We’ll be teaching coding through a hands-on approach. I’m talking about tools like Scratch for beginners, and then moving into more advanced platforms like Codecademy or freeCodeCamp. We’ll teach HTML, CSS, and eventually JavaScript so they can make their own websites."

Njoki, the Digital Marketing Advisor, jumped in with a smile.

Njoki: "And let’s not forget the power of social media. These girls are going to need the right tools to create content that looks professional and cohesive across platforms. We’re talking Canva, Adobe Spark, and other design tools that let them create digital content easily. Plus, we’ll use platforms like WordPress for them to build their own blogs and websites. It’s one thing to learn the skills, but it’s another to actually have a place to showcase them."

Dominique, the Software Engineer, chimed in.

Dominique: "Yes! I’m all for showing them the ropes of coding, but we need to give them the space to experiment. That’s why we’ll use interactive platforms like Repl.it and Glitch. These will let them practice writing code in real-time and see their projects come to life instantly. The more hands-on they are, the better."

Jaleesa, the Digital Marketing Campaign Manager & Research Scientist, nodded.

Jaleesa: "And as they create their content, we’ll make sure they’re not just focused on the technical aspects. We’ll have them focus on crafting a story—whether it’s for a blog post, a YouTube video, or a social media campaign. They’ll need to understand that what they’re creating has a purpose. It’s about learning how to communicate clearly and effectively across different platforms."

Sharlene, the Founder of the Cultural Sensitivity Marketing Firm, wrapped up the discussion with her unique perspective.

Sharlene: "And I think it’s essential that they learn how to use these skills to connect with others. Content creation isn’t just for showing off; it’s about building a community. Whether it’s through a blog, a social media post, or a video, these girls will learn how to use digital tools to share their stories, connect with people, and grow their network."

Tia: "Exactly. This program is about giving them the tools they need to thrive in a digital world. We’ll teach them code and creation, but we’ll also teach them to collaborate, adapt, and continuously learn. With the right tools, guidance, and mindset, they’ll have everything they need to succeed."

​As the call continued, the team made plans to implement the lessons and set up interactive learning spaces. It was clear that the foundation of the program—focusing on code and creation—would provide the participants with valuable skills that would not only empower them in their personal and professional lives but also give them the confidence to navigate and shape the future of technology. With the right resources and support, these girls and their mothers would be ready to take on the digital world.

Story 4: Using Research & Leverage to Building Digital Futures

A dynamic team of women working together in a modern office setting, using digital tools and collaboration to drive creativity and innovation. This image highlights the power of teamwork and digital literacy in the professional world.

The team gathered in the modern office, buzzing with energy. The Black-Liberation.Tech Open Educational Resource (OER) was coming to life, and the mission was clear: empower girls and their mothers to use their digital literacies—specifically, to research and leverage the tools and networks that would open doors to their futures.

Tia kicked off the session, leaning forward in her chair with her laptop open, ready to share her thoughts.

Tia: "Alright, let’s dive in. We’ve got this incredible opportunity to teach the next generation of Black and Latina women how to own their digital spaces. We’re talking about research and leveraging networks, skills, and technology in ways that’ll really level the playing field for them. This is beyond just using the internet; it's about being strategic—knowing how to find the right info, and using the right tools and connections to elevate themselves."

Nicole Bakula, the UX Researcher, nodded, her eyes lighting up with agreement.

Nicole Bakula: "Exactly. Research is the backbone of what we do every day in UX design. Whether I’m choosing between different platforms or evaluating user behavior, it all comes down to the ability to dig deeper, ask the right questions, and connect the dots. I’ve spent years honing my research skills—whether that’s through usability testing, analyzing data, or working with platforms like Maze.co and UserTesting. But what I love most is how research empowers you to make informed decisions. And I think these girls will really benefit from understanding how to do this for themselves."

Jazmin, the MarTech Publicist, added with enthusiasm, "That’s true! I mean, I landed my first job through research, too. I was digging into the kind of people I wanted to work with, doing the legwork, researching organizations that aligned with my values, and just putting myself out there. It’s so much about connecting and finding people with similar goals, right? Technology is a tool that closes those gaps—helps people from small towns to large cities, access bigger networks and ideas."

Tia: "That’s exactly it. Research isn’t just academic—it’s about finding information that will propel you forward. And when it comes to leveraging those networks, that's where the magic happens. It’s about finding the right people, asking the right questions, and putting yourself in the position to succeed."

Nadine, the UX Designer, jumped in, her voice thoughtful.

Nadine: "For me, it’s about curiosity. I’m always researching, whether it’s a new tool, a design principle, or a way to better engage people. I was just telling the team the other day about this tool called Mural—visual collaboration software. It changed the way I work remotely. Before, I was doing the same things, but now with this tool, I can bring people together digitally in a much more engaging and creative way. Research is crucial to keep evolving and improving, whether it’s for design or understanding people’s needs."

Tia: "I love that! And that’s the kind of mindset we need to instill in the girls. They’ll need to use platforms like Mural to work on group projects, whether they’re designing websites or developing digital content. They need to see that the tools they use aren’t just there to consume--they’re there to create. And for me, that’s what leveraging networks is all about—using the knowledge we gather and the tools we have to build something bigger."

Jaleesa, the Digital Marketing Campaign Manager & Research Scientist, chuckled as she added her two cents.

Jaleesa: "You’re speaking my language. I mean, how many times have we all researched ways to get our work noticed? We use social media to create our personal brand, build our networks, and engage with our community. And now we’re going to teach the girls how to use these platforms in strategic ways—how to find mentors, network with industry professionals, and leverage digital spaces to share their work, their ideas, and their voices. It’s all about using these platforms as tools to amplify their message."

Sharlene, Founder of the Cultural Sensitivity Marketing Firm, leaned back in her chair and smiled at the team.

Sharlene: "And the beauty of it is that research isn’t just something you do alone. You can leverage the power of collaboration. Whether it’s finding a mentor through LinkedIn or working on a project with others in the digital space, we’re showing them how to use the information they find to collaborate, co-create, and push their ideas further. Research and leverage work hand-in-hand."

Dominique, the Software Engineer, who had been quietly observing, finally spoke up.

Dominique: "Right, and let’s not forget about the tech side of things. I mean, these girls will need to know how to access and use tech platforms to make their research actionable. Whether they’re using Google Scholar to find research papers or learning to use coding platforms like GitHub to test and share their work, it’s all about accessing the right tools and using them effectively. The more they understand how to leverage what’s out there, the better positioned they’ll be to make a real impact."

Ebony, the Grassroots Organizer, nodded, her voice full of conviction.

Ebony: "Absolutely. The power of technology is that it democratizes access. These girls--and their mothers—are going to learn how to tap into those resources to empower themselves and their communities. Whether it's leveraging social media for activism or using design tools to create a business, they’ll be in control of their digital narrative."

Tia: "So, as we plan the lessons, I think it’s clear we need a solid blend of research-based learning and teaching them to use those findings to leverage opportunities. We’ll use tools like Google for research, Mural for collaboration, and platforms like UserTesting to help them test their work and ideas. And the best part? They’ll get to do it all in a supportive environment, learning from each other and their mentors."

Nicole Bakula: "That’s the key. Research empowers. Leveraging those results to create something meaningful—that’s where the real impact happens."

Tia: "And that’s exactly what we’re going to teach them. Research and leverage—the foundation for building a powerful digital future. Let’s make sure we equip these girls with not just knowledge, but the tools and networks to make their mark."

​The team paused, each person reflecting on the profound impact the program would have. With their combined expertise, they were ready to create an after-school program that would teach young girls and their mothers how to thrive in a digital world—one where they were not just consumers, but creators, thinkers, and innovators.

A dynamic group of young women in a library, using digital tools to collaborate on a project. The image showcases the importance of teamwork, creativity, and digital literacy in a modern learning environment.

Lesson: Creating & Completing a Project for Your Personal, Academic, or Professional Journey
Overview:
In this lesson, you will use your answers to the guiding prompts to generate ideas for a project that aligns with your personal, academic, or professional goals. You’ll learn how to adapt to new tools, try different approaches, and implement strategies that will help you complete the project successfully. By the end of the lesson, you will have a clear action plan and a set of resources to help you complete your project.
Objective:
By the end of this lesson, you will have:

1. Identified a project based on your career or academic journey.
2. Generated prompts for ChatGPT to assist you in creating your project and step-by-step instructions.
3. Learned how to find successful women in similar fields to gain insights and inspiration.
4. Found resources to help you acquire the skills needed to complete your project.​​

Step 1: ​Reflection & Writing Prompts

Examples of Digital Literacies: Review the examples of digital literacies. From the list below, select 5 to explore further throughout the lesson. Based on your selections, reflect on the corresponding prompts and write out your responses. You may use those selected or choose new ones later on in the lesson. You are welcome to skip any of the prompts that do not apply and jump to the "guiding questions for online search" to learn more about how others demonstrate the digital literacies.
1. Adapt

• How have you adapted to new digital tools or platforms in the past? How did this help you improve your productivity or creativity?
• Can you think of a time when you struggled to adapt to a new technology? What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
• What strategies can you use to remain adaptable in the rapidly changing world of technology?
• Guiding questions for online search: Look up examples of Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women who have successfully adapted to new technologies in their careers. What tools or strategies helped them in this process?

2. Analyzing

• Reflect on a digital project you've worked on. What data or information did you analyze to improve your work or decision-making?
• What methods do you typically use to analyze digital content? Are there any other methods you would like to explore?
• In what ways do you think digital analysis helps professionals in fields such as marketing, education, or technology?
• Guiding questions for online search: Search for examples of Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women in tech who use data analysis to drive innovation. How do they approach analysis?

3. Data Analysis

• How do you currently analyze data in your personal or professional life (e.g., interpreting survey results, financial tracking)? What tools or methods do you use to help you interpret and act on data?
• Think about a situation where analyzing data helped you make an informed decision. What steps did you take to process the information?
• How could you enhance your data analysis skills? Are there tools or techniques that could improve your ability to analyze and understand complex data?
• Guiding questions for online search: Search for resources on data analysis used by Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women in tech or business. What tools and techniques do they recommend for beginners?

4. Deliver Products

• When delivering a product or result in your professional or personal life (e.g., completing a project, making a presentation), how do you ensure the outcome meets expectations?
• Reflect on a time when you delivered a product and received feedback. How did you use that feedback to improve your future work?
• What strategies or tools can help you improve the speed and quality of your product delivery?
• Guiding questions for online search: Look for examples of Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women entrepreneurs who have successfully delivered products or services. How do they manage their workflow and meet client demands?

5. Deliver Services

• How do you deliver services, whether in a volunteer, professional, or personal context (e.g., consulting, teaching, assisting friends)? What steps do you take to ensure satisfaction?
• Think about a time when your service delivery exceeded expectations. What did you do differently to achieve this?
• How can you leverage technology to improve the services you deliver? What tools could streamline your work?
• Guiding questions for online search: Explore how Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women in customer service or nonprofit sectors use digital tools to enhance service delivery. What platforms and strategies do they use?

6. Researching

• How do you conduct digital research? What tools or strategies do you find most helpful?
• Can you think of a time when thorough digital research helped you make a better decision or solve a problem?
• How can you improve your researching skills to stay ahead in your academic or professional pursuits?
• Guiding questions for online search: Search for methods and resources that successful Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women in research fields use to improve their researching skills.

7. Pivot

• Have you ever had to pivot in your career or digital projects due to unforeseen circumstances? How did you adapt?
• What digital tools or strategies did you use to pivot quickly and effectively?
• How can the ability to pivot help you stay relevant in the tech industry?
• Guiding questions for online search: Find stories of Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women in tech who have successfully pivoted in their careers. How did they approach change?

8. Publish

• What kind of content have you published online (e.g., articles, blogs, social media posts)? How did you decide what to publish?
• How do you ensure that your content is relevant, useful, and aligned with your goals?
• What steps would you take if you wanted to publish content regularly?
• Guiding questions for online search: Explore how Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women in the publishing industry or digital marketing use content publishing to advance their careers.

9. Code

• What coding languages do you know? How did you learn them, and how do you use them in your work?
• Reflect on a time when coding helped you solve a problem or create something digital. What was the result?
• What are your goals for improving your coding skills? How can coding expand your career opportunities in tech?
• Guiding questions for online search: Search for coding bootcamps or courses for Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women in tech. What are some resources they recommend for learning to code?

10. Create

• How do you approach the creative process when using digital tools? What tools or platforms help you bring your ideas to life?
• Can you share an example of something you've created digitally, whether for work, a hobby, or personal use? What was your creative process?
• How do you plan to expand your creative capabilities in the digital space?
• Guiding questions for online search: Look for Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women in creative fields (e.g., graphic design, animation, or music) who use digital tools to create. What projects have they worked on?

11. Implement

• How do you implement plans or strategies in your life? What steps do you take to ensure that your ideas are put into action effectively?
• Think about a time when implementing something new (e.g., a new habit or process) led to positive results. What obstacles did you face during implementation, and how did you overcome them?
• How can you improve your implementation skills for better success in personal or professional projects?
• Guiding questions for online search: Search for methods of implementation used by Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women in business or tech. How do they overcome the common challenges of putting ideas into practice?

12. Leverage

• Think of a time when you leveraged a digital tool or resource to solve a problem. What did you learn from that experience?
• How can you leverage technology to improve your efficiency or productivity at work or school?
• What other ways can you use digital tools to create more opportunities for yourself?
• Guiding questions for online search: Look up examples of Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women who have leveraged digital tools to excel in their careers. What tools do they recommend?

13. Design Research, Qualitative Aspect

• How do you approach conducting research in a non-digital environment? What methods do you use to gather and analyze qualitative data (e.g., interviews, focus groups)?
• Reflect on a time when qualitative research (even outside of tech) helped you gain valuable insights into a topic. How did you apply this information?
• How can you improve your qualitative research skills, especially when working with people or gathering subjective data?
• Guiding questions for online search: Search for examples of Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women conducting qualitative research in areas like social science or business. What techniques do they use in their work?

14. Self-Publishing

• Have you considered self-publishing any content? What would you publish, and why?
• What platforms or tools would you use to self-publish your work? Why do you think self-publishing is an important skill in today’s digital world?
• How could self-publishing enhance your personal or professional brand?
• Guiding questions for online search: Look for stories of Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women who have self-published books, articles, or other content. What platforms do they recommend?

15. Try Different Things

• How do you approach trying new things, whether in your personal or professional life? What factors encourage you to take risks and experiment?
• Reflect on a time when trying something new led to a surprising outcome, either positive or negative. What did you learn from the experience?
• How can you build a mindset that embraces experimentation and trying different things in your daily routine or work?
• Guiding questions for online search: Look for examples of Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women in fields such as business, arts, or technology who are known for trying innovative approaches. What can you learn from their experiences?

Step 2: Create Your Project Idea

Using your answers to the above questions, start to think about a project for your personal, academic, or professional journey. Your project can relate to any of the following:

• Personal: Creating a new habit or setting a goal for self-improvement.
• Academic: Completing a research paper, group project, or personal academic endeavor.
• Professional: Building a portfolio, developing a new skill, or launching a new business idea.

​Examples of Possible Projects for Using Digital Literacies in Your Personal, Academic, or Professional Journey
Based on the digital literacies you explored in this lesson, here’s a list of potential projects you can create and complete to help you apply what you’ve learned in your personal, academic, or professional journey:
Personal Projects:

1. Digital Organization System
   Digital Literacies Covered: Adapt, Implement, Leverage
   Project Idea: Create a digital system to organize your personal life, such as managing your finances, health data, or daily tasks. Use tools like apps for time management, budgeting, or goal-setting, and adapt to new technologies to streamline your personal workflow.
2. Online Habit Tracker
   Digital Literacies Covered: Create, Implement, Data Analysis
   Project Idea: Build a digital habit tracker that allows you to track personal goals such as fitness, reading, or wellness. Analyze your data to identify trends and adjust your habits over time to improve your productivity.
3. Self-Published Blog or Vlog
   Digital Literacies Covered: Publish, Self-Publishing, Create
   Project Idea: Launch a blog or vlog to document your personal growth journey or share your experiences with specific hobbies or interests. Publish regular posts and experiment with different content formats.
4. Personal Digital Portfolio
   Digital Literacies Covered: Create, Deliver Products, Implement
   Project Idea: Create a portfolio showcasing your skills, achievements, and creative work. This could be for a future job search, academic program application, or simply as a personal reflection of your journey.
5. Digital Reflection Journal
   Digital Literacies Covered: Researching, Implement, Analyze
   Project Idea: Create a digital journal where you reflect on your experiences, challenges, and growth. Use research tools to gather insights on personal development topics and implement strategies for improvement.
   
   

Academic Projects:

1. Digital Research Paper or Thesis
   Digital Literacies Covered: Researching, Analyzing, Data Analysis
   Project Idea: Conduct research for a paper or thesis on a topic related to your field of study. Use digital tools to analyze data, organize information, and implement research strategies effectively.
2. Interactive Study Guide or eBook
   Digital Literacies Covered: Create, Publish, Implement
   Project Idea: Develop an interactive study guide or eBook on a topic you are studying. Publish it digitally and share it with classmates or the wider community to help others learn. Include multimedia content such as videos, quizzes, or infographics.
3. Digital Presentation or Project Proposal
   Digital Literacies Covered: Deliver Products, Implement, Researching
   Project Idea: Create a professional-grade digital presentation or project proposal using tools like PowerPoint, Canva, or Google Slides. Present your research, ideas, or academic findings to an audience in a compelling and clear format.
4. Academic Blog for Knowledge Sharing
   Digital Literacies Covered: Publish, Analyze, Researching
   Project Idea: Start an academic blog where you share insights, summaries of academic research, or personal reflections on the topics you are studying. Analyze trends and data in your field and use that knowledge to create valuable content for your peers.
5. Collaborative Online Study Group
   Digital Literacies Covered: Deliver Services, Implement, Leverage
   Project Idea: Organize and manage a virtual study group for your class using tools like Zoom, Google Meet, or Discord. Use digital tools to share notes, resources, and collaborate on projects or assignments.
   
   

Professional Projects:

1. Digital Marketing Campaign
   Digital Literacies Covered: Researching, Implement, Deliver Products
   Project Idea: Plan and execute a digital marketing campaign for a personal project or a small business. Use analytics tools to track performance and adapt the campaign based on data. Publish content on social media and blogs to engage your audience.
2. Tech Solution for a Business Process
   Digital Literacies Covered: Code, Create, Implement
   Project Idea: Develop a tech solution (e.g., an app, website, or automation tool) that improves a specific business process. This could involve coding, leveraging existing platforms, or creating a new digital workflow to enhance productivity and efficiency.
3. Online Learning Platform or Course
   Digital Literacies Covered: Create, Publish, Researching
   Project Idea: Design and publish an online course or learning platform. This could be on a topic you are passionate about or in your field of expertise. Research what makes effective e-learning content, create engaging multimedia materials, and implement the course to attract learners.
4. Build a Professional Website or Portfolio
   Digital Literacies Covered: Create, Publish, Deliver Products
   Project Idea: Build a professional website or digital portfolio that showcases your career achievements, work samples, or professional skills. Use your site to help with job applications, freelance opportunities, or to promote your personal brand.
5. Entrepreneurship Project
   Digital Literacies Covered: Researching, Deliver Services, Implement
   Project Idea: Start a small online business or social entrepreneurship project. Use digital tools to market your product or service, research customer needs, and manage your business processes. Implement a strategy to grow your audience and expand your offerings.
   
   

Additional Ideas:

1. Digital Resume and Networking Campaign
   Digital Literacies Covered: Publish, Researching, Deliver Products
   Project Idea: Create a digital resume and network with professionals in your field using LinkedIn, Instagram, or other platforms. Publish content that reflects your professional expertise and use social media to engage with industry leaders and peers.
2. Digital Tool to Streamline Your Work
   Digital Literacies Covered: Implement, Leverage, Researching
   Project Idea: Identify a task you perform regularly and create or implement a digital tool to streamline or automate that process. It could be something as simple as a productivity tracker or a more complex automation script.
3. Online Volunteer or Consulting Service
   Digital Literacies Covered: Deliver Services, Researching, Leverage
   Project Idea: Offer volunteer or consulting services in your area of expertise through digital platforms. Use research and digital tools to enhance your service offerings and connect with a wider audience.

These projects will help you apply and enhance your digital literacies while also contributing to your personal growth, academic success, and professional development. Choose a project that resonates with your interests or career goals, and use the tools and strategies you’ve learned throughout this lesson to bring it to life.

Step 3: ​Generate Prompts for ChatGPT to Help Create Your Project

Now, let’s use ChatGPT to break down your project into actionable steps. For each project, use the following template and fill in the details:

ChatGPT Prompt Template 1: Project Planning
“[Insert your responses to Steps 1 & 2 as context for Step 3.] Use all of the above to help me plan a [insert project type: personal, academic, professional] project. My goal is to [insert purpose or reason for the project]. I need a step-by-step plan to complete this project, including tools and strategies to implement it. Please also include how I can adapt to new tools and technologies, try different approaches, and implement effectively. The specific areas I need help with are: [list the digital literacies such as Adapt, Implement, Deliver Products, etc.].”

ChatGPT Prompt Template 2: Research and Resources
“Help me find Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women who have completed similar projects in [insert field/discipline/course name/profession]. I would like to learn about their experiences, how they adapted to new tools, what strategies they used to implement their ideas, and any resources or tools they recommend. Please suggest where I can find videos, blogs, and articles by these Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women, and how to connect with them on platforms like LinkedIn or Instagram.”

ChatGPT Prompt Template 3: Skill Development
“Help me find resources to learn the skills needed to complete my project in [insert field/discipline/course name/profession]. What tools, software, or platforms should I use? How can I leverage online tutorials, courses, or communities to develop my skills? Please provide specific resources that will help me with [insert skills or areas needed for your project, e.g., coding, project management, research techniques].”

Step 4: ​Find Women with Similar Experiences

Now, let’s find women who have completed similar projects or have experience in your field. Here are some tips for searching:
1.     LinkedIn:

• Search for professionals in your field using keywords like "Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women in [insert profession]" or "[insert field] entrepreneurs."
• Check their profiles to see their projects, accomplishments, and any posts about challenges or tools they’ve used.

2.     Instagram:

• Use hashtags like #Latinasintech, Afrolatinasintech, #Blackwomenintech,  #Latinasentrepreneurs, #Afrolatinasentrepreneurs, #Blackwomenentrepreneurs, #Latinacoders, #Afrolatinacoders #Blackfemalecoders, #Latinasinbusiness, #Afrolatinasinbusiness #Blackwomeninbusiness, or #[insert your specific field] to find posts from Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women in your industry.
• Look for personal stories, tips, and content that inspire you.

3.     Blogs:

• Search for Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women-led blogs or sites focused on your area of interest. Use Google to search for phrases like "Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women in [insert profession] blog," "how Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women in [insert field] adapt to technology," or "success stories of Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women in [insert profession]."

4.     Videos:

• YouTube is a great place to find tutorials, interviews, and success stories. Search for terms like “Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women in [insert field] share their journey,” “how Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women adapt to new technologies in [insert field],” or “successful Latinas, Afro-Latinas and Black women entrepreneurs in [insert industry].”

Step 5: ​Create a Plan for Your Project

Now that you have your ideas, resources, and support, it’s time to start creating your project. Use the following steps to structure your plan:

1. Define your project goal and purpose: What do you want to achieve, and why is it important to you?
2. Set a timeline: Break your project down into smaller tasks and assign deadlines to each task.
3. Gather the necessary resources: What tools, skills, or research do you need? Use the resources you found in Step 4.
4. Take action: Start with the first task and begin implementing your plan.
5. Monitor progress: Keep track of your progress and adjust as needed. Don’t be afraid to pivot if something isn’t working.

By completing these steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating and successfully completing your project!