ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS OF DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP

Digital citizenship refers to the responsible use of technology by anyone who uses computers, the Internet, and digital devices to engage with society on any level. As the rate of technological advancement continues to increase, the world as a whole is becoming more dependent on the Internet for day-to-day activities making digital citizenship a crucial topic to teach today’s students. Think social interactions with friends, buying a product online, or managing your back account.

Families: here is a Guide to Online Safety and Security at Home.

At Warren we want our students to use good digital citizenship habits that shows them how to use digital tools to: 

  • connect with one another, 

  • empathize, 

  • and create lasting relationships.

Bad digital citizenship habits, on the other hand, lead to:

  • cyberbullying, 

  • irresponsible social media usage, and 

  • a general lack of knowledge about how to safely use the Internet.

The International Society of Technology in Education (ISTE) has compiled a list of nine elements of digital citizenship for students:

  1. Digital access: Advocating for equal digital rights and access is where digital citizenship starts.

  2. Digital etiquette: Rules and policies aren’t enough — we need to teach everyone about appropriate conduct online.

  3. Digital law: It’s critical that users understand how to properly use and share each other's digital property.

  4. Digital communication: With so many communication options available, students need to learn how to choose the right tools according to their audience and message.

  5. Digital literacy: This involves more than being able to use tools. Digital literacy is about how to find, evaluate and cite digital materials.

  6. Digital commerce: As students make more purchases online, they must understand how to be effective consumers in a digital economy.

  7. Digital rights and responsibilities: Students must understand their basic digital rights to privacy, and freedom of speech.

  8. Digital safety and security: Digital citizens need to know how to safeguard their information by controlling privacy settings.

  9. Digital health and wellness: One important aspect of living in a digital world is knowing when to unplug. Students need to make informed decisions about how to prioritize their time and activities online and off.