Thing #2.11 Digital Citizenship

And now we reach the heart of the matter: teaching students to be responsible digital citizens. I think that at the elementary level especially, this is the most important part of teaching students using Web 2.0 things. Since many of the tools are only going to be introduced and used under teacher guidance, now is the best time to start some frank discussions with the students about being good digital citizens. Here are five things that I will tell my class:

1. Always remember the "Golden Rule:" Treat others the way that you want to be treated. Even when you are using an alias/screen name, you have a responsibility to be kind and considerate to others. Just because people can't see you doesn't mean that you can act however you choose. If what you are thinking of doing or saying on the Internet is something that you would not do or say in the classroom, then you probably should rethink those actions. You are always responsible for your actions, always!

2. Use your brain. Be good question askers and problem solvers. Think about your goal before getting on the computer and starting the project. Make an outline of what you plan to do when you get on the computer. Are you going to do research? Think about what you will search for and where you will search for it. Are you going to create a poster/slideshow/video/etc.? Think about what sounds, pictures, and music you will use. Are they okay for you to use? What if they are not? Have a plan B in mind for when plan A doesn't work. Be sure you are familiar with the tools you are using, or make sure that you have a way to get questions answered. If you somehow end up somewhere you shouldn't be, or see something that you think is for adults, quickly exit the program and alert an adult. Use your head and heart, if something doesn't feel right, then don't do it! A good rule of thumb is to ask first, then use!

3. Work with your friends. Have a buddy that can help you check your work, and you in turn can check theirs. If you have a question about whether something you are doing is appropriate, ask your buddy or buddies. Collaborate with your friends to make your projects better, but remember to be positive in your intereactions. Collaborate with friends or relatives in other places--send them links to your work and get their ideas too. Work with people you know, or with people that your teacher has approved. Never search out random people to share your work with, this could be dangerous. Share your facts, share your positive opinions, but keep the rest to yourself.

4. Learn how to research with a wary eye. Not everything you find on the Internet is fact or even true. You will find many sites that are full of opinions, and some that are completely fiction.* Often authors have a bias that makes them print only the facts that support their ideas. Look for information that gives both sides of an issue without bias. Don't be afraid to actually read the information that you find! Skimming through the pages is not always effective, and you may miss important information. Take your time when doing research. When you find an interesting site, take the time to validate it. Find out if you can trust the site and its information.

5. Communicate! Tell your parents when you are getting on the computer, and what you plan to do when you are there. Do the same thing at school. Don't hop on the Internet and start playing without letting an adult know about it. If you find a site that asks for personal information, stop and tell an adult before proceeding. On the other hand, if you find a site that is very useful or cool, let an adult know that too!

I think that my first lab lesson of the year will be on digital citizenship. I'll introduce each of these concepts, and show examples of the Internet being used wisely and unwisely. Then I'll have a short webquest for them to complete that will give them a chance to practice. Then each time we are on the internet we can work on these skills.

*This is the best site that I have ever seen for teaching about validating sources. I found the site when I taught third grade in Utah and the students were doing animal reports. One pair really wanted to do this animal, and it took us a bit to realize that it was a hoax.