Social media has flattened the world. People of all ages share pictures, videos, instant message, and create all kinds of information collaboratively using on-line cloud computing. These socializing and communication options can be fulfilling, yet they also come with risks.
Digital citizenship is more important today as students are using technology independently and interacting in both a physical and online world. In the book, Digital Citizenship in Schools by Mike Ribble and Gerald Bailey, nine elements that together comprise digital citizenship are outlined. They are digital access, commerce, communication, literacy, etiquette, law, rights and responsibilities, health and wellness, and security.
Many times people (kids and adults both) forget that their online actions can have real world consequences because of the feeling of anonymity while online. Tweens and teens share thoughts and plans with the world. This type of socializing can create a hurtful environment if words, photos, or videos are meant to damage a reputation
Cyberbullying is an issue that is emerging and comes with a large audience. Students can help stop cyberbulling by not responding and report the issue to the site where it happened.
Free resources are available to public schools from the Federal Trade Commission at http://bulkorder.ftc.gov/. The kit contains videos, handouts, and resources for students, parents, and teachers. There is also great material at http://www.onguardonline.gov/.
We offered a parent session on digtial citizenship held during conferences. The details of the presentation is found at http://techtools4teaching.wikispaces.com/Digital+Citizenship.
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