What is Northstar?
Northstar is a platform that teaches foundational computer skills.
Provides online, self-guided assessments of digital skills in 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 |
Available in libraries and community partners across the state! Learn how to access, call or email Workforce Development Librarian Joyce Abbott
360-570-5578 Joyce.Abbott@sos.wa.gov
How Does Northstar Work?
-
Northstar provides self-paced online learning classes that prepare learners to use devices and navigate the internet with safety and confidence to do everyday activities.
-
All materials are available in English and Latin American Spanish.
-
Feedback is strengths-based, showing learners where they already have foundational skills as well as directing them to areas for practice.
-
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 available at many libraries, WorkSource locations, and Community-Based Organizations.
-
Get help finding the Northstar location closest to you: please reach out to joyce.abbott@sos.wa.gov.
-
-
Anyone can take their digital skills assessment for free at https://www.digitalliteracyassessment.org
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