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Digital technologies are electronic systems and resources that help us learn, communicate, play and more.

You can find digital technology in school, at home and even when you're out and about.

Some everyday examples of digital devices include:

Watch this video to find out some of the ways that we use computers.

Digital technology can help us learn in lots of different ways.

We can use it to:

• find out information about topics we are studying
• practice maths
• write a story
• create a presentation
• create digital art

You are using digital technology right now to explore how we use digital technology!

You might use digital technology to take part in video lessons with your class and look at resources from your teacher.

Sometimes, games and quizzes can be added to resources to make learning more interactive and fun. We call this gamification.

Gamification is also used in other areas, for example - fitness, healthy eating and even getting enough sleep!

Can you think of any other ways digital technology has helped you to learn?

Digital technology can be found in most jobs.

Sometimes, it is obvious when digital technology is used, for example in computer programming jobs or scientific research.

However, digital technology is also used in lots of other jobs from farming to fashion.

• Doctors use digital technology to help diagnose illnesses.
• Some medical tests are examined in a laboratory using digital technology.
• Robots are often used to help perform difficult surgery.

Modern cars contain an on-board computer which provides mechanics with detailed information about the car and any issues it is having.

Digital tools are sometimes used to make repairs.

Writers use word processing software to write their stories, articles or poems. It can also make it easier to edit and identify errors.

When writer Sir Terry Pratchett became ill, he had a special computer built, to help him continue writing stories for the rest of his life.

Fashion designers often use a computer and 3D design software to design their clothing on.

This allows them to view their design from different angles.

Some designers are using digital technology to create clothes that can change colour and light up!

In football, many matches now use a video assistant referee (VAR).

A qualified referee watches the match on multiple screens. The video assistant referee is able to view slow-motion replays from lots of different angles, then help and advise the referee on the pitch.

Digital technology allows us to communicate with people all over the world. Video calls, social media and instant messaging are some of the ways we can stay in touch.

Many adults have a smartphone, which allows them to send short messages (SMS), pictures and videos to friends and family.

Did you know?

Messages sent via a smartphone are called SMS, which stands for short message service. SMS messages are meant to be short and quick to send.

Smartphones, tablets, laptops and desktop computers can all be used for video calls.

Some devices have even been created just for video calling on a larger screen.

You can communicate with people using email, digital forums and social media. These allow us to type messages, comment and add responses but usually aren't instant.

It's important to remember to be respectful and polite when communicating online.

Digital technology can also be a lot fun. We can use it to:

• play computer games
• explore different parts of the world we wouldn't be able to see otherwise
• look at artworks that are in a museum
• make videos
• watch our favourite tv shows
• create our own art masterpieces