Response to Digital Citizenship

Ribble, Bailey Ross (2004). Digital Citizenship: Addressing Appropriate Technology

Behavior. Learning & Leading with Technology, 32 (1), 6-12.

1. Briefly describe and give examples of the nine general areas of Digital Citizenship.

A)Etiquette:

Digital etiquette applies to situation both on and off technological devices. The first involves the behavior while communicating, such as following online etiquette rules. Another form of etiquette is the actual use of the devices in inappropriate situations, such as texting during a face-to-face conversation or participating in social networks during class time, meetings, work situations, etc.

B) Communication:

While they potential of online communication is limitless, communication tools can easily be manipulated to create unkind situations. This includes the common behaviors of exclusion and rude communications. In addition, students also need to learn the appropriate means of communication for each situation. For example, while it may be acceptable to use shorthand terms like “u” instead of “you” when e-mailing a friend, students need to learn that it is not appropriate for classroom assignments.

C) Education:

Technology has opened many doors in the field of education. Teachers and students are able to collaborate with each other using online tools. In order to achieve the most of this powerful idea, however, it is important that students learn the correct way to do so. In order to achieve this, teachers need to work in creating online projects for the students to learn from. These tools also promote educational concepts like collaboration and critical thinking.

D) Access:

While technology in all forms is becoming much more common, it is important to remember that not all people come from the same background. Because of this, some students may not have available access to the internet or other tools. This situation needs to be considered by the teacher when creating an assignment or project, but it should not stand in the way of the students learning about technology. Various ways to help overcome this struggle include giving the students time during class to work on their work, partnering students who don’t have access to the necessary tools with those that do, or using funding and grants to obtain the necessary tools for each student.

E) Commerce:

Over the past several years, many people have turned to online shopping due to its efficiency and convenience. Instant price comparisons without having to leave home form a compelling argument for this new commerce environment. It is important, however, that people realize the risks and precautions necessary before participating in online transactions. Such dangers include identity/information theft, increased impulse purchases, and the purchase of low quality products.

F) Responsibility:

Even though it may seem that the online environment provides a level of anonymity, it is important to remember that each person still has to act responsibly. This includes the broad subject on online ethics. It is important for people to understand how copyright laws apply and how to follow fair use laws. In addition, it is important for students to understand that downloading music and videos often prove to be illegal acts under such copyright laws.

G) Rights:

In contrast to the section above, it is also important for students to realize that their work also is protected under copyright laws. They have a right to things that they create just as they are expected to respect the rights of others.

H) Safety:

While people often are cautious of online danger, it is important to remember that one’s physical health can also be affected by technology. This is called ergonomics and includes things like posture, proper lighting for the screen, and carpal tunnel syndrome.

I) Security:

The final element discussed in this article is the importance of security in the online environment. This includes the security of their work, their computers, and their identity. To help protect work, it is suggested to teach students about the importance of creating back up copies as well as learning the different methods of doing so. To protect their computer it is important to keep all of the software updates and virus checks up to date. In order to protect their identity, it is important that students learn not to share personal information publicly as well as act responsibly when faced with someone else’s personal information.

2. Are there any that you would add?

While I found this list to be incredibly detailed and inclusive, I did find that one area needed to be touched upon in addition to the rest:

Cyber Bullying:

Communication devices and social networking have recently been being used to participate in what is known as Cyber Bullying. Students are being humiliated through the spread of rumors on line. In addition, students are being threatened by others using online communication. This is an issue as serious as the bullying that occurs on the playground and it is important for both teachers and students to be aware of its dangers and repercussions.