As a future teacher, I find it very important to approach digital citizenship in a positive and encouraging manner. Technology is something that can be scary and intimidating so as a teacher I find it our duty to teach our students how to navigate technology responsibly and wisely. As I grow older, I have really realized how technology has greatly advanced since I was a child. Throughout my childhood, watching TV was the most techy thing it got for me. We weren’t surrounded by technology growing up and in school when it was needed, we struggled to navigate all the challenges it had. In my future classroom I plan to have technology available to my students so that they will have an opportunity to learn what it is, how we use it, and the advantages and disadvantages it may have. In doing this, I want my students to all know and understand when technology should and shouldn’t be used and how to use it both appropriately and wisely. I find it our responsibility to help students on their way to learning how to become confident and capable digital citizens.
As Jason Ohler said “School is an excellent place to help kids become capable digital citizens who use technology not only effectively and creatively, but also responsibly and wisely”.
When it comes to the 9 elements of digital citizenship there are a few ways I could go at approaching them. First would be starting with the three guiding principles; safe, savvy, and social. These three principles will be the stepping stones to teaching your students about being capable digital citizens and start them off on the importance of being responsible. After going over these principles I would slowly integrate each element into the curriculum and give the students a chance to go over and understand the importance of each concept, what it means, and what they can do to follow alongside it. I would help guide students along the way making sure they are understanding and communicating respectfully online to myself, other students, or other individuals.
I find there are so many benefits and helping students approach digital citizenship and the benefit of the student for years to come. As teachers, when we help students how to appropriately and respectfully navigate their way around the internet, we are creating a better environment for them and for everyone they connect and interact with.
Thanks for the share!
I like how right from the start you mention approaching digital citizenship in a positive and encouraging way, being a guide for students to succeed with these tools. I also agree with the steps you listed and I think it’s a great way to integrate digital citizen in a slow but understanding way where students can feel confident and prepared. It’s so important we teach our students to be respectful and responsible online, were not just shaping digital citizens, but kinder communities!
Hello Payton!
I really loved your perspective on teaching digital citizenship! You’re so right — technology can feel overwhelming, especially for students who might not have had consistent or safe exposure to it. I appreciate how you plan to approach it positively and encourage your students to feel confident rather than afraid. That shift in mindset is so important in helping them grow into capable digital citizens.
I also really liked that you mentioned the guiding principles of safe, savvy, and social — it’s such a smart way to simplify and introduce the 9 elements without overwhelming students (or teachers!). Creating those foundational values first will definitely help set the tone for more meaningful conversations about digital responsibility down the line.