Navigating Cyber Safety: Lessons from Small-Town Schooling

During my school years in a small town school, cyber safety was a topic that educators took seriously, and they employed a variety of methods to install its importance. One common approach was through dedicated lessons when it comes to our digital world. These lessons focused on teaching us the proper ways to use the internet, such as creating strong passwords, recognizing phishing attempts, and understanding the importance of privacy settings on social media platforms. Tools like Google’s Be Internet Awesome curriculum were introduced, which provided interactive activities and games to make learning about online safety engaging and fun.

Another technique used was scare tactics, where teachers would share real-life stories about people who faced severe consequences due to unsafe online behaviour. In EDTC class last week we took a look at different videos and resources. The first one was a YouTube video Everyone Knows Your Name, and the second resource was a bundle of media sources videos. While these videos and stories were alarming, they may effectively highlight the risks associated with careless online activities. They serve as a stark reminder that the digital world requires the same level of caution and responsibility as the physical world.

Growing up in a small town school, we did not have many in-person resources or experts available to teach us about cyber safety. This made online technology sources particularly valuable. As I plan to teach in a rural school, I decided to dig a little deeper into some resources out there, that maybe one day I can implement into my classroom. In Saskatchewan, various technology sources and programs are employed to address cyberbullying. For instance, the Red Criss Respect Education program offers resources and workshops for students and educators on how to recognize and prevent cyberbullying. Additionally, the Saskatchewan Minister of Education provides guidelines and resources for schools to implement comprehensive digital citizenship in education. Websites like NeedHelpNow.ca offer support for youth who experience online exploitation, including practical steps for removing inappropriate content and coping with the emotional impact.

In retrospect, I found the education approach more beneficial than the scare tactics. Learning how to navigate the internet safely through structured lessons and interactive platforms like Be Internet Awesome gave me practical skills that I still use today. Scare tactics, while memorable, often left me feeling anxious rather than empowered. For today’s students, I believe the balanced approach that combines practical education with real-world examples is more effective. Interactive apps and websites that teach cyber safety online while also keeping the learning process enjoyable. Programs like those offered in Saskatchewan are excellent examples of how a supportive and well-rounded approach can make a significant difference in promoting cyber safety among students, especially in areas where in-person resources are limited.