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DigCompConsumers2016

Code: 1.2

Evaluating and comparing information on goods and services

To compare and critically evaluate the reliability of digital sources of information on goods and services. To compare and critically evaluate information on goods, services, purchasing terms and conditions related to the digital marketplace. To compare commercial offers using comparison tools, websites and channels.

Descriptors

Knowledge

What you learn at this level

  • K

    Understanding that not all information online on goods and services is reliable or complete

  • K

    Understanding that that price comparison results may not be complete, can be inaccurate or impartial

  • K

    Knowing about digital tools (e.g. apps, portals, sites) that allow one to compare goods, services, prices

  • K

    Knowing how to find sites, communities, and social media groups where consumers share opinions on products and services

  • K

    Knowing how to check the reliability of e-commerce sellers and websites (e.g. verifying if the identity, address, contact details of the seller are complete)

  • K

    Knowing that e-commerce trustmarks are a means of identifying reliable online shops

  • K

    Knowing to compare only total prices that include VAT

  • K

    Knowing that energy, telecommunication and financial services regulators make online comparison tools available

  • K

    Knowing that independent consumer associations make comparison tools and comparative testing available online

  • K

    Knowing that some (price) comparison tools' results may be influenced by advertising and/or marketing

Skill

What you learn at this level

  • S

    Being able to compare, contrast, and integrate information from different sources regarding prices, quality, purchasing terms and conditions of goods and services.

  • S

    Being able to find relevant communities, networks, and social media groups where consumers share opinions about goods and services

  • S

    Being able to verify the reliability of sellers before making transactions

  • S

    Being able to adjust default settings for ranking of search results on platforms and portals

  • S

    Being able to use online price comparison tools or tools that compare quality and price

  • S

    Being able to assess the value of the information that is pushed at the consumer based on previous searches or visits via dynamic advertising or via social media pages or email

Attitude

What you learn at this level

  • A

    Values that making informed choices implies comparing offers from different providers

  • A

    Being critical regarding the presentation and alleged attractiveness of offers

  • A

    Valuing the possibility to make cautious and responsible purchasing decisions

  • A

    Critically evaluating the reliability, impartiality and accuracy of the information on comparison websites

  • A

    Recognising that people tend to choose default options

  • A

    Critically evaluating user reviews and ranking systems

Learning outcome types
K — What you need to know: theoretical understanding and factual information.
S — What you can do: practical and technical abilities.
A — How you approach things: values, dispositions and behaviours.