From Sandbox to Society

views comments

From Sandbox to Society: A Spiral Curriculum Approach to Digital Literacy Across the Lifespan and Beyond

Stefanie Gambino-Carter, Lesley University
Connie Carter, Central Connecticut State University

This presentation explores digital literacy as a developmental continuum from early childhood through adulthood, addressing gaps faced by adults due to poverty, limited instruction, and incarceration—challenging workforce-readiness narratives. Drawing on Montessori and college/prison education experience, we propose a "spiral continuum" framework grounded in developmental appropriateness and hands-on learning. Using tools like Canva, we demonstrate how learners at vastly different starting points can progress beyond technical competence toward meaningful digital citizenship.

This presentation was given at the Connecticut Digital Humanities Conference in at the Elihu Burritt Library in New Britain, CT on March 19, 2026.

Tags

From Sandbox to Society

Related Media