by Rebecca How
One important competency of the 21st century is digital citizenship. The question arises, “What is digital citizenship?” Digital citizenship has been defined as online behavior that is legal, ethical, safe and responsible in using technology.
Researchers from University of Kansas state “that Digital Citizenship is more than just a teaching tool; it is a way to prepare students/technology users for a society full of technology. Too often we are seeing students as well as adults misusing and abusing technology but not sure what to do. The issue is more than what the users do not know but what is considered appropriate technology usage.” Some educators think we don’t need to teach Digital Citizenship; simply teach citizenship. Other educators think there needs to be a common language that educators can teach to parents, students and fellow teachers. Let’s look at nine elements of digital citizenship as defined by the University of Kansas.
- Digital etiquette is electronic standards of conduct. Many people feel uncomfortable discussing etiquette with others, especially digital etiquette. Instead of addressing the issue, many create rules and regulations or ban it all together. What is the solution?
- Digital communication is simply the electronic exchange of information. Cell phones and use of cell phones in the classroom have wreaked havoc on educators. Many schools consider cell phones inappropriate in the school, but are they?
- Digital access is full electronic participation in society. Do all people need to have fair access to technology no matter who they are?
- Digital literacy is the process of teaching, learning and using technology. New technologies emerge constantly, so as educators we need to ensure that these technologies are taught as well as how they should be used. People need information instantly. In manufacturing, we needed inventory control, so we came up with just-in-time inventory methods. Maybe today we need just-in-time information?
- Digital commerce is electronic buying and selling of goods. People purchase online for all reasons― toys, books, clothes, even cars. Online purchasing is reaching new heights of popularity and it is convenient. There are some people who prey on the innocent, selling immoral and illegal goods and services. How do we deal with this situation?
- Digital law is electronic responsibility for actions and deeds. Unethical technology users are engaging in pirating activities, while ethical technology users abide by the laws of society. Diane D. Painter has written a book “What Do You Mean COPYRIGHT Does Not Mean I Have the Right to Copy?” Does this statement encompass the root of the problems with digital citizenship and the lack of integrity among users?
- Digital rights and responsibilities are the freedoms which are granted to everyone in the digital world. Basic digital rights must be addressed, discussed and understood in the digital world, then communicated effectively to society.
- Digital health and wellness is physical and psychological well-being in the digital world. Many new syndromes are becoming apparent with digital technology like internet addiction, eye safety and ergonomic issues. Technology users need to take the initiative and learn how to protect themselves.
- Digital security is electronic precaution for safety in the digital world. We lock our car doors; the same must be true with our digital security. You decide, do we teach today’s native technology students digital citizenship or not?
References
www.digitalcitizenship.net University of Kansas
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