Being a positive digital citizen

Response to Module 6- Digital Citizenship

It is vital that students learn how to be good digital citizens so that they are able to engage with the digital world in a confident, safe and positive manner. As the Australian Government, Office of the eSafety Commisioner (n.d.) explains on their webpage a “… digital citizen is a person with the skills and knowledge to effectively use digital technologies to participate in society, communicate with others and create and consume digital content”. I believe a key way to ensure that students are responsible digital citizens is to make sure that they are first aware and understand the “human, cultural and societal issues related to technology” (Roblyer & Doering, 2014, p. 43). Students should not be taught to be fearful of the digital world but should be encouraged to engage with technology in a safe, legal, fair and responsible way (Roblyer & Doering, 2014).

Being a responsible digital citizen it not difficult and mostly requires common sense and an understanding of the damaging impacts and issues that irresponsible behaviour can produce. Being a responsible digital citizen starts with being a responsible citizen in general (Dunn, 2014). It requires people to communicate respectfully and effectively in the online world (Roblyer & Doering, 2014). In our increasingly online world it is becoming more important that students are taught digital citizenship as Roblyer & Doering (2014) explain it is a skill that is “critical for life-long learning and productivity” (p.80).

Jeff Dunn (2014) effectively defines the nine characteristics of being a positive digital citizen in his article as being someone who:

-          advocates for equal digital rights and access for all

-          Treats everyone with respect

-          Upholds basic human rights

-          Does not steal or damage peoples work or identity

-          Protects their personal information

-          Makes good decisions when communicating with others

-          Uses digital tools to enhance their learning

-          Makes responsible decisions when purchasing online

-          Limits the health risks associated with technology

Australian Government, Office of the eSafety Commisioner. (n.d.). Digital Citizenship. Retrieved from https://www.esafety.gov.au/education-resources/classroom-resources/digital-citizenship

Dunn, J. (2014, December 12). The Nine characteristics of a positive digital citizen. Daily Genius. Retrieved from http://dailygenius.com/positive-digital-citizen/

Roblyer, M., & Doering, A. (2014). Pearson New International Edition. Integrating Educational Technology into Teaching. Harlow, England: Pearson