Equity and Digital Literacies: Issues of Access, Ethics and Engagement in a Youth Community Setting

Abstract

This article reports on the issue of confidentiality faced by a community youth agency that provides access to digital technology for homeless or street-involved youth. Social media is the prevalent form of communication in displaced communities and presents certain ethical challenges as a result of creating and sharing media with potential unintended audiences. Ensuring ethical practices is a key aspect of the ongoing process of developing digital literacy that changes as technology evolves. It requires the facilitator’s focused attention to guide the youth in their ability to consider their digital footprint and potential unintended consequences of their practices.