Dear Professors and Colleagues,

The Institute of Advanced Studies in Humanities and Social Sciences (IAS) is pleased to announce the 1^st International Conference on Digital Literacy and the 5^th IAS Annual Conference, a pioneering forum dedicated to advancing research, practice, and policy in digital literacy worldwide. Digital literacy is an evolving field covering the skills, tools, and practices required to effectively navigate digital environments. This conference provides a venue for critical discussions on foundational theories, practical frameworks, and inclusive practices that support both emerging and established perspectives on digital literacy. We invite researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and educators to contribute their insights on a wide range of topics central to digital literacy.

The key theme of the conference will be Shaping the Future of Digital Literacy: Concepts, Evaluation, and Inclusion.

Topics of Interest

We welcome submissions that focus on, but are not limited to, the following themes:

Basic Concepts and Theoretical Frameworks

• Exploration of core definitions and paradigms in digital literacy
• Comparative analyses of digital literacy models
• A review of historical and contemporary theoretical perspectives
• Theories and practices of digital humanism

Evaluation of Frameworks and Standards

• Development and implementation of assessment tools for digital literacy skills
• Critiques and recommendations for existing digital literacy standards
• Methodological approaches for measuring digital competencies
• Human-centered AI development approaches

Regional Differences and Comparative Studies

• Case studies highlighting regional variations in digital literacy practices
• Cross-cultural insights and challenges in digital literacy education
• Impact of socio-economic factors on digital literacy across regions

Empirical Studies and Data-Driven Research

• Quantitative and qualitative studies advancing our understanding of digital literacy
• Evidence-based research on the effectiveness of digital literacy interventions
• Innovations in research methodologies applied to digital literacy studies

Spatial Intelligence and World Models

• Human intelligence and machine intelligence
• True data and the “original sin” of LLMs
• Linguistic world and physical world of Humanoid robots
• Understanding agentic AI
• AI risks

Interdisciplinary Theories and Emerging Perspectives

• Integration of theories from education, communication, technology, and social sciences
• Analysis of digital literacy within broader frameworks of digital citizenship and information literacy
• Digital minimalism
• Future directions and emerging conceptual models

Digital Literacy for Vulnerable Groups with a Special Focus on Disability

• Addressing gaps in digital literacy education for people with disabilities
• Research on accessibility, adaptive technologies, and inclusive practices
• Policy analysis and practical strategies to empower vulnerable populations through digital literacy

Humanities and Social Sciences in the Digital Age

• The role of the humanities and social sciences in understanding digital transformation
• New methodological approaches to studying digital phenomena
• Pros and Cons of AI application to liberal arts
• Reflections on digital humanities

Digital Literacy and Education

• Building equitable access to digital education and resources
• Understanding misinformation, disinformation, and the credibility of digital content
• Innovative pedagogical approaches in digital learning environments
• The role of technology in reducing educational disparities

Digital Assets and Data Registration

• Data rights and data assets
• Data Registration
• Data Market

Feminism and Digital Technologies

• Gendered implications of AI and digital platforms
• Feminist critiques and contributions to the development of digital eco-systems

Keynote Speakers

The conference will feature keynote addresses from prominent scholars and practitioners in the fields of digital literacy, digital technologies, AI ethics, law, and social sciences. Stay tuned with updates!

Submission Guidelines

Short Biography

• Language: English or Chinese
• Length: 150-200 words
• Content: Brief academic background, research interests, and professional achievements

Full Paper Submission

• Language: English or Chinese
• Length: 7,000 – 10,000 words

*Please submit your short biography along with your full paper.

Formatting Requirements

• All English submissions must adhere to Oxford style. Please view the link to access the recommended writing style: Link to Oxford style
• All Chinese submissions must adhere to the style of South China Quarterly: Journal of University of Macau: Link to the style. (Please only refer to items 2, 3, and 4.)
• Please submit your work in word format to ias.programme@um.edu.mo.

Notes for Participation

1. No Participation Fees

• • This conference is free of charge for all participants.

2. On-Site Presentation
   • Authors of accepted papers will be invited to present their work during the conference on-site at the University of Macau.
   • Accommodations, transportation within Asia (and limited number of international tickets), and meals will be provided for invited presenters.

Important Dates

• Submission deadline: 3 October 2025
• Notification of acceptance: before 30 October 2025
• Conference Date: 20-21 November 2025

Contact Information

For inquiries, please contact us at ias.programme@um.edu.mo.

We look forward to your contributions and to an engaging and impactful conference that will influence the future of digital literacy practices globally. Whether your research focuses on fundamental concepts, innovative evaluation frameworks, or empowering vulnerable groups, your insights are invaluable to this critical discourse.

 

The Institute of Advanced Studies in Humanities and Social Sciences

University of Macau