When you read my post, you can listen to the song ‘Virtual Insanity’ by Jamiroquai in the background. I hope you will like it 🙂

In my own experience as a student, schools’ approaches to cybersecurity and digital citizenship differed significantly between high school and university.

During my high school years in the 1990s, we had access to a computer lab where we learned to use Microsoft software. The problem? The lab was always locked, and only one teacher had the keys to this digital treasure trove. Without proper guidance and supervision, we students were not allowed to use the computers freely. According to the school administration, this approach seemed to be a way to instill cybersecurity. Although it restricted our access to technology, it had a noble purpose: to ensure that we used computers responsibly and without causing disruptions.

As I transitioned to university life, the approach to cyber safety took on a new form. In the library, we had access to computers connected to the Internet, but there were some restrictions. We couldn’t log into popular messaging platforms such as ICQ, Yahoo chat rooms, or instant messengers. The computers were to be used primarily for academic purposes, like checking the news and accessing our emails. This approach, while allowing access to the internet, imposed limitations on activities considered potentially distracting or disruptive in a learning environment. It struck a balance between providing access to resources and maintaining a focused academic setting.

Looking back, I see that both approaches had their advantages. High school’s tight control over computer access ensured responsible use even as it limited our exposure to technology. On the other hand, the university approach offered more flexibility while still maintaining a certain level of control to encourage academic focus.

Looking ahead, the most effective strategy for preparing students for digital citizenship in today’s tech-centric world likely involves a combination of both approaches. Emphasizing responsible use with measured restrictions can help students develop the skills they need to navigate the digital environment safely and responsibly, making the most of the digital age while avoiding its potential pitfalls.