If one is to have technology in the classroom then the article, Digital Citizenship, by authors, Mike S. Ribble, Gerald D. Bailey, and Tweed W. Ross, is an incredibly important read to familiarize oneself with before introducing technology to children. I learned that there are norms of behavior when using the internet. I think many of these rules are common sense that any mature adult would realize is an appropriate way to behave online. Unfortunately, these rules do have to be spelled out to many adults and of course should be explained to children before they engage in internet use. Coming from a Psychology background, I’ve learned that it is much easier for someone to stay anonymous online and write hateful things, bully, look at inappropriate material etc. because when it is just that person and the screen around, it is easy to feel safe and comfortable. I think this article is incredibly important in teaching safety and etiquette when using technology and is a much needed read for teachers who plan on having technology in the classroom.
I think digital citizenship should be taught in the classroom, as young as possible so that they have that lesson before they build bad habits. Like any topic, you can teach something in the class but ultimately it is the responsibility of the student to apply the lesson outside of class. I think digital citizenship should be taught for two reasons: 1. To teach people that your words and actions online affect real life people and 2. Real life people are behind the computers and they may have bad intentions. Both items are incredibly serious even though people are just now building momentum in discussing the repercussions of cyber bullying and online predators.
Hi Laura!
ReplyDeleteI really liked that you said, "It is the responsibility of the student to apply the lesson outside of class." I too believe that putting the emphasis on the idea that the student is the one who has to take the initiative and be responsible for what he/she posts on the internet. The teacher only has control over what he/she has going on in his/her classroom and not the rest of the world. Perhaps parents could also be involved in educating their students about how to apply these digital citizenship skills. I also agree with you that cyberbullying and other negative interactions are more prevalent and not as difficult for people to do because of the perceived anonymity that comes with being online.
Hi Laura,
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with you that children need to be taught digital citizenship as young as possible to prevent them from building bad habits. I read an article through my PLN which talked about digital citizenship as being the "new social skills for students" which tie into your reasons for teaching digital citizenship in the classroom. Remembering to say please and thank you are just as important as being kind and polite on social networks. I also like what you said about the student being responsible in applying these lessons. Teachers can give them the skills but it up to the students and parents, of course, to make sure those skills are being applied.