What is Northstar?
Northstar is a Digital Literacy & Northstar Online Learning platform developed by nonprofit Literacy Minnesota.
Northstar provides online, self-guided assessments of digital skills in each of 14 areas, focusing on the foundational skills needed to use a computer and the internet in daily life, employment, and higher education.
| Essential Computer Skills | Essential Software Skills | Using Technology in Daily Life |
|---|---|---|
|
Basic Computer Skills Internet Basics Using Email Windows MAC OS
|
Basic Computer Skills Internet Basics Using Email Windows MAC OS |
Social Media Information Literacy Career Search Skills Accessing Telehealth Appointments Your Digital Footprint Supporting K-12 Distance Learning |
How Does Northstar Work?
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A subscription to Northstar provides access to self-paced online learning modules and classroom Curricula to prepare learners for assessments in each of the 14 areas.
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This Curricula is currently available in English and Latin American Spanish.
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Assessment feedback is strengths-based, showing learners where they already have foundational skills as well as directing them to areas for practice.
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Test takers can receive certificates and/or digital badges when they pass Northstar assessments in a proctored environment at a Northstar testing location. Proctored assessments are offered at many libraries, WorkSource locations, and Community-Based Organizations. If you need help locating a Northstar location closest to you that will meet you needs, please reach out to joyce.abbott@sos.wa.gov.
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Anyone can take their digital skills assessment for free at https://www.digitalliteracyassessment.org/
Northstar Training & Support Resources
- In June of 2023, WSL offered a series of trainings showcasing how community-based organizations are adapting Northstar resources to meet local needs and expectations.
- Each 30 minute training has been recorded and remain available in Washington State Library's Niche Academy.
- A full, comprehensive training on Northstar for Library staff is also available in the WSL Niche Academy.
- Northstar News & Announcements page keeps you up-to-date when new translations are released or new features become available.
- Northstar provides monthly comprehensive trainings which are recorded and housed on YouTube.
How do Libraries Get Access to Northstar?
Every library in Washington is eligible for a Northstar account free through the state library. This includes public, tribal, educational and special libraries. If you are interested in trying out Northstar at your institution, please contact Joyce.abbott@sos.wa.gov.
How Do Community-Based Organizations Access Northstar via the State Library?
Community-based organizations may access Northstar for their programs through the Washington State Library. Please contact Joyce.abbott@sos.wa.gov to discuss your ideas and needs.
- WSL can provide access to a test account, and based on your needs, can provide a dedicated site license or access to a shared license.
- Community-based organizations may be asked to share a license under some circumstances with another community-based organization.
- For security purposes, A library may not share the same license with a Community-based organization.
- Community-based organizations in need of a dedicated license will work with the state library on an annual basis to evaluate continued need.
Not sure and want to discuss further?
If you are a government entity or a business, please reach out to discuss your needs further.
360-570-5578