Today’s students are constantly on the internet. They use tablets and computers in schools, for homework assignments and for leisure. However, they must learn responsibility when it comes to using the internet. This is the age of digital citizenship.
Either fortunately or unfortunately, digital media is here to stay. Therefore, students need mentored on online behavior. They must learn to behave responsibly. They must behave just as they do in the physical social world.
Safeguards
When communicating with other students in or out of class there are several safeguards to follow:
• Protection of identify. Never give out names, addresses or phone numbers. There continues to be a risk of unwanted strangers interacting online.
• Computer protection. The update on security software protects against hackers and other computer threats.
• Create passwords that are unique. Never give out passwords to friends and never lend a friend, or anyone a personal phone or computer. Not all students are responsible internet users.
• Parents and teachers must monitor online activity. Some parents fear for the safety of a young child with the assignment of group homework on the internet. Therefore, teachers must hear parent concerns and take safety precautions. Appropriate interactions must take place.
• Respect is important. Respect for each other’s feelings and their privacy.
Harmful or Helpful
Digital medial can be both beneficial and harmful as it is used. Students, at times, lack the ability to realize the harm they do in their language or actions. A danger of social media is the interpretation of tone in the written word.
Schools teach skills that are beneficial to the job market. Through social media and collaboration teachers provide students with a head start on this skill. In addition, many students find it easier to share ideas in a less personal setting. Therefore, social media serves as a method to allow both introverts and extroverts to easily interact.
But, technology can be abused and exploited. Parents and teachers must understand the pitfalls. However, it does not mean that it needs to be banned. It needs to be taught proper use. Parents and teachers need to research and plan ahead for the pitfalls before students fall into a trap. Teachers and parents must work together before they entertain their classroom assignments with social media to create responsible children.
