Teaching Digital Citizenship

Hollandsworth, R., Dowdy, L., & Donovan, J. (2011). Digital Citizenship in K-12: It Takes a Village. Techtrends: Linking Research & Practice To Improve Learning, 55(4), 37-47. doi:10.1007/s11528-011-0510-z


Definition of Digital Citizenship:  " The term digital citizenship might create a confusing mental picture of what it represents in the K-12 classroom. If aligned with character education, it would lend itself to becoming a good citizen in the digital community. In many of the projects and curriculums examined through this article, the term represents a more comprehensive view of technology usage. In addition, it would include considerations for student safety and security, educational enhancement, ethical and legal behaviors, and becoming an effective member of digital communities. Mike Ribble (2010) defines digital citizenship as, “a concept, which helps teachers, technology leaders, and parents to understand what students/children/technology users should know to use technology appropriately” (p. 1). He further elaborates that, “it is a way to prepare students, children, and technology users for a society full of technology” (p. 1)."

"In reference to the negative events associated with the K-12 digital usage, Davis states, “this is an opportunity to empower a new generation of students who will stand up and speak out when they see these things happening”

"Carrie James from the Good Play Project states, “One of the strongest takeaways from our studies of digital youth is that they most often think and act in individualistic ways online” (personal communication, August 1, 2010). Students will require awareness that online behaviors can impact people within their immediate circle of friends but also outside of that circle. Additionally, student digital behaviors can impact their own personal social dynamics, personal resources, careers, and safety."

"“While the bulk of youth’s online activities are conducted beyond the school day, educators often have to deal with effects in school – e.g., conflicts
between students due to online bullying or gossiping. Moreover, some parents may expect teachers and administrators to address digital citizenship issues. For a number of legitimate reasons, many schools tend to be reactive, rather than proactive, about such issues. However, the groundwork for digital citizenship is best laid in a proactive way, before problems arise”

"Students must be taught digital literacy. Digital Literacy and Citizenship in the 21st Century offers a definition for digital literacy as “the ability to use technology competently, interpret and understand digital content, assess its credibility and create, and research and communicate with appropriate tools” (Common Sense Media, 2009, p. 1). Many new programs that address digital citizenship are designed for students of middle school age and older. Research shows, however, that many students have already derived their own rules for use of technology by this age. Students use technology at home before they start school, requiring parents to begin teaching their children digital citizenship as soon as they begin to use a computer."

This is starting to remind me of sex ed--by the time we teach it, it may be too late.  Teaching digital literacy and citizenship from Kindergarten (or whenever they first use computers) is essential.

"Digital citizenship can be compared to American citizenship in that all digital citizens have the same basic rights: to privacy, free speech, and creative work rights. Teaching students how to protect their privacy is critical. Everyone has the right to free speech but students need to be taught to think about what is said and posted online, which has far reaching effects. Students should also understand that when something is created it belongs to the creator. It should not be copied or altered in any way. Students do not fully understand copyright laws or how to legally obtain information, songs, pictures, etc. The village must take responsibility to ensure students know not only what is illegal but also what is legal. Students must understand that with rights also comes responsibility, the responsibility to conduct themselves legally and ethically, as well as to help their peers
accept responsibility."

Teach them what they CAN do, not just what they "can't" do.  Engage them in role-plays or give them ethical scenarios to work out.  How should they react if they "witness" cyber bullying?  Begin the discussion.

"As media specialists, you are encouraged to do the following in regards to digital citizenship initiatives:
•    Establish appropriate policies and practices for digital practices in K-12.
• Educate all stakeholders, including administrators, teachers, students, parents, library media specialists, technology coordinators and community members
• Evaluate digital citizenship curriculums critically.
• Explore references and feedback from previous users of commercially developed digital citizenship curriculum.
•    Emulate effective digital citizenship initiatives.
• Emphasize a collaborative approach to digital citizenship by all k-12 stakeholders, including
parents and students.
• Equip students through proactive efforts versus reactive responses."

I really believe this is essential, and that TLs, CTs, administrators, parents, and businesses must combine forces to teach digital citizenship to our youth.  Until we teach students how to handle information and how to conduct themselves online, it is irresponsible of us to teach them to use those resources.  And they are going to use technology whether we teach it to them or not (and we should teach it to them, I'm not advocating against teaching technology).  I just think this should be a central part of all curriculum.