Tool #11

Digital Citizenship, according to Cool Cat Teacher, encompasses 4 things centered around the student.

1. Literacy

2.Safety

3. Learning Strategies

4. Etiquette



I believe that digital citizenship, like any other subject must be developed over the years. That is why we (baby boomer teachers) are having the most difficult time embracing technology. But, hey, we are getting there.

We as teachers must facilitate experiences that advance student learning, encourage students to explore world issues and solve problems using various tools,while promoting collaboration, understanding, and reflection.

In the classroom, I would try to teach each aspect of Digital Citizenship by comparing them with areas we already teach. I might teach internet safety by comparing why we don't talk to strangers we meet on the street. I would discuss basic rules of etiquette, why we have such rules, how we feel when people break those rules and then introduce rules of etiquette for the digital world. Etiquette and safety go beyond the classroom, reaching more important areas of law and ethics. The same goes for literacy and learning strategies , all of which will only be expanded and enhanced by the use of tools and digital information. At the same time, our digital world allows students exposure to cultural differences, more global awareness, and hopefully, more understanding of our fellow man and the world we all share.