Digital Citizenship in the Classroom

I believe in my future classroom it is important to teach from a “one life” perspective, as discussed in the article by Jason Ohler. This involves students use of technology being accepted at school instead of being segregated only to their time outside of school hours. This is based on the belief that elimination of technology in the school environment doesn’t adequately teach students about appropriate use of technology. In order to access this level of learning, proper integration of technology is required. If we aren’t teaching students about appropriate use of technology at school, they are potentially not being taught these essential skills at all. It is our responsibility as educators to teach our students necessary skills that will help to set them up for success in their future. By ignoring technology and restricting their access to it, we are setting them up for potential failure in the future. Additionally, as we discussed in class, banning technology only solves the problem of inappropriate technology use on a surface level. It isn’t accurately teaching the students about responsible technology use and appropriate usage. Although, as Ohler mentions it is simply not enough to go from banning technology to integrating it. We must go beyond and educate our students on how to question the technology they are using. Our

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world is constantly changing with the use of technology, and we need to help students stay in the forefront of it all in a helpful, responsible way and proactive way. Also, in an article by Nathan Jurgenson, he brings about the idea that one can never truly separate ourselves from technology, even if we are “offline”. Since technology has come into our lives, it has changed the way our brains are thinking about our daily experiences, even when we aren’t connected to technology.  This brings about the question, is it possible to truly eliminate technology from the school environment when considering this factor?

In my future classroom I will teach the 9 elements of digital citizenship through not only informing my students about each element and what it truly means but I will also lead by example. I will exhibit what it means to have healthy boundaries with technology and how to use technology responsibility. This includes showing how if used properly, technology does have great benefit. I don’t want my students to be afraid of technology, I want them to embrace it, while also understanding that balance is key. Providing students with the information and skills required for digital citizenship gives them the opportunity to make informed, positive and safe decisions. Lastly, as with any other subject, I plan to be open to learning along the process with my students and learn from their experiences.

A final note in the stating of my belief and my intentions for my future classroom, I do recognize that I have to abide by and work within the boundaries put in place by the school policies.