"Each day the world is becoming increasingly digital/Your students begin to use
more and more technology devices at home and in the classroom. But, are they
prepared to be good digital citizens? Just as you teach your students the rules of
society, it is imperative that you teach them the rules of the digital world, and how
to be safe and responsible with technology."
~From Digital Citizenship in Schools Second Edition Mike Ribble
One of the essential tools students need now is digital citizenship.
What is digital citizenship?
Digital citizenship is beyond netiquette, digital safety, and online
classroom management. Citizenship includes participation, a sense
of belonging, and rights/responsibilities.
~Ann Collier
Excellent Sites for Technology and Digital Citizenship
This information was taken from an Education World article here.
Author of the popular book Digital Citizenship in Schools, Mark Ribble is often cited as an expert in the field. In his book, he lays out nine elements of digital citizenship:
- Access: Good digital citizenship starts with working toward all individuals having full access to online and digital resources.
- Commerce: Individuals should understand the role of online marketplaces and avoid illegal or unethical practices such as downloading pirated material.
- Communication: Email, instant messaging and social media have changed how we communicate, and individuals must learn how to make wise use of these communication methods.
- Etiquette: One of the most widely noted aspects of digital citizenship is online etiquette and the ability to interact appropriately with others in the virtual world. Included among these skills is avoiding cyberbullying and knowing what to do when one experiences or witnesses it.
- Health and wellness: Long hours on the computer can cause back pain and eye strain or be a symptom of an Internet addiction. Good digital citizens must learn how to balance their time online with their physical and psychological well-being.
- Literacy: Digital literacy means knowing what technology is available and how to use it.
- Law: The virtual world is not free from laws or regulations, and users must be aware of how they can use the material they find online.
- Rights and responsibilities: Online and digital media users should have a right to privacy and free speech, but they also have a responsibility to act appropriately within the virtual realm.
- Security: Finally, good digital citizenship means understanding the risks involved with using technology and taking precautions such as setting up firewalls and backing up computer data.