8.3.1: Creating Ethical Digital Citizens
- Page ID
- 32076
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\(\newcommand{\avec}{\mathbf a}\) \(\newcommand{\bvec}{\mathbf b}\) \(\newcommand{\cvec}{\mathbf c}\) \(\newcommand{\dvec}{\mathbf d}\) \(\newcommand{\dtil}{\widetilde{\mathbf d}}\) \(\newcommand{\evec}{\mathbf e}\) \(\newcommand{\fvec}{\mathbf f}\) \(\newcommand{\nvec}{\mathbf n}\) \(\newcommand{\pvec}{\mathbf p}\) \(\newcommand{\qvec}{\mathbf q}\) \(\newcommand{\svec}{\mathbf s}\) \(\newcommand{\tvec}{\mathbf t}\) \(\newcommand{\uvec}{\mathbf u}\) \(\newcommand{\vvec}{\mathbf v}\) \(\newcommand{\wvec}{\mathbf w}\) \(\newcommand{\xvec}{\mathbf x}\) \(\newcommand{\yvec}{\mathbf y}\) \(\newcommand{\zvec}{\mathbf z}\) \(\newcommand{\rvec}{\mathbf r}\) \(\newcommand{\mvec}{\mathbf m}\) \(\newcommand{\zerovec}{\mathbf 0}\) \(\newcommand{\onevec}{\mathbf 1}\) \(\newcommand{\real}{\mathbb R}\) \(\newcommand{\twovec}[2]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\ctwovec}[2]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\threevec}[3]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\cthreevec}[3]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\fourvec}[4]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\cfourvec}[4]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\fivevec}[5]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \\ #5 \\ \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\cfivevec}[5]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \\ #5 \\ \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\mattwo}[4]{\left[\begin{array}{rr}#1 \amp #2 \\ #3 \amp #4 \\ \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\laspan}[1]{\text{Span}\{#1\}}\) \(\newcommand{\bcal}{\cal B}\) \(\newcommand{\ccal}{\cal C}\) \(\newcommand{\scal}{\cal S}\) \(\newcommand{\wcal}{\cal W}\) \(\newcommand{\ecal}{\cal E}\) \(\newcommand{\coords}[2]{\left\{#1\right\}_{#2}}\) \(\newcommand{\gray}[1]{\color{gray}{#1}}\) \(\newcommand{\lgray}[1]{\color{lightgray}{#1}}\) \(\newcommand{\rank}{\operatorname{rank}}\) \(\newcommand{\row}{\text{Row}}\) \(\newcommand{\col}{\text{Col}}\) \(\renewcommand{\row}{\text{Row}}\) \(\newcommand{\nul}{\text{Nul}}\) \(\newcommand{\var}{\text{Var}}\) \(\newcommand{\corr}{\text{corr}}\) \(\newcommand{\len}[1]{\left|#1\right|}\) \(\newcommand{\bbar}{\overline{\bvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\bhat}{\widehat{\bvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\bperp}{\bvec^\perp}\) \(\newcommand{\xhat}{\widehat{\xvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\vhat}{\widehat{\vvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\uhat}{\widehat{\uvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\what}{\widehat{\wvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\Sighat}{\widehat{\Sigma}}\) \(\newcommand{\lt}{<}\) \(\newcommand{\gt}{>}\) \(\newcommand{\amp}{&}\) \(\definecolor{fillinmathshade}{gray}{0.9}\)Fostering Ethical Digital Citizens
Fostering ethical digital citizens within educational settings is a multifaceted endeavor that requires a strategic approach. The following short video is written to a student audience. It provides some good context to helping you fostering ethical digital citizens in your own educational settings.
Digital Citizenship | Things Explained [Video: 4:40 min. Closed Captioned].
Here are some objectives/goals and effective strategies educators can employ to nurture responsible and ethical behavior online
Incorporating Digital Citizenship Curriculum
Our goal is not just to teach students basics of using technology. More importantly, we want to give them a deep understanding of and respect for critical areas like privacy, intellectual property, and appropriate online behavior. Privacy online is complex and extremely important. Students need to learn the value of their personal information and how to protect it.
Educating students on these topics requires a multifaceted approach. It’s not just theoretical instruction but also real-world application. We need to create a culture of digital literacy and ethical internet use that students carry with them outside the classroom, into everyday life. This education is to safeguard them now and prepare them to be responsible digital citizens as the world becomes even more interconnected.
For example, a social studies class could discuss the societal impact of digital footprints, while a computer class could delve into the technical aspects of internet security and privacy.
Promoting Awareness and Discussion
The goal of raising awareness and discussion here is to stimulate critical thinking. Understanding complex digital ethics is not just about dos and don’ts. It’s about seriously considering how our online actions and choices affect things. This approach pushes us to reflect on how we use the internet and interact with others. It helps build a more thoughtful, responsible online community. Whether it's privacy, data security, or complex online communication, opening a dialogue on these topics is key for developing a more ethically-aware online presence.
For example, we can organize discussions, debates, and workshops on relevant topics. Topics might include privacy rights, the impacts of cyberbullying, and understanding disparities in internet access. These types of forums can be very helpful for making students aware of the complexities around digital interactions.
Developing an Internet Usage Policy
The development of a school-wide internet usage policy is a crucial step for educational institutions aiming to foster a safe and responsible digital environment. This initiative is about more than just setting rules; it's about creating a framework that supports ethical online behavior, protects students and staff, and ensures a positive and productive digital experience for all. By establishing and enforcing these guidelines, schools can effectively manage the complexities of internet usage, promoting a culture of respect, safety, and responsibility in their digital interactions.
For example, we can work with teachers, administrators, and students to create a complete internet usage policy. This policy should define the rules for online behavior. It should also spell out what happens if someone breaks the rules. Having a clear, structured policy in place helps make the digital environment more secure.
Figure 8.3.1 Digital Citizenship Strategies by Renee Albrecht CC BY.
Parental Involvement and Education
Getting parents involved in teaching ethical digital citizenship is key. It expands the learning from the classroom into the home. Parents play a big role in reinforcing and complementing the principles taught at school. By including families in this dialogue, educators can take a more comprehensive approach to building responsible digital citizens. That way, lessons on internet use and ethics are consistently reinforced both at school and home. This community-wide effort creates a stronger foundation for nurturing informed and conscientious digital users.
For example, we can engage parents through meetings and by distributing informational resources. Educating parents about internet safety and ethics reinforces what is taught in school. It promotes a steady approach to digital citizenship between school and home.
Encouraging Positive Online Behavior
Fostering a culture of positive online conduct is important in developing ethical digital citizenship, particularly among students. This initiative aims to promote values of respect, kindness, and constructive interaction within the digital space. By establishing an environment where positive digital interactions are standard, educators and parents play a crucial role in developing a more empathetic and supportive online community. This approach not only combats issues such as cyberbullying and digital misconduct but also advances a comprehensive understanding of responsible digital citizenship, thereby contributing to a healthier and more respectful online environment.
For example, acknowledging and rewarding examples of commendable digital citizenship. This could include recognizing students who use social media to advocate for social causes or those who provide support to peers facing online challenges.
Utilizing Technology Tools
Using technology tools is another strategy to help students use the internet responsibly and ethically. These tools can do things like block content that's not suitable for students or teach them about staying safe and private on the internet. By bringing these kinds of technology into classrooms, teachers can give students real-life examples of how to be smart and ethical while they're online.
For example, implementing software tools for monitoring internet use, filtering inappropriate content, and enhancing digital literacy skills. These tools can provide practical experience in navigating the digital landscape safely and responsibly.
GCP Education. (2021, July 30). Digital Citizenship: Things explained. YouTube.