Character Education and How it Applies to Online BLOG Behavior

The following are attributes of every Character Education program currently used in our schools. And even more than mere classroom attributes, they are ones that I feel should we as members of online communities should keep in the back of our minds. They will serve us well as bloggers on today's internet.
The traits which I woudl like to emphasize are as follows.

ResponsibilityThe true meaning of responsibility is when one accountable both in word and deed. This individual is one who attacks all tasks with reliability, dependability and commitment to the end. Being a member of an online community where others can depend upon you to do your part is an important example of responsible behavior.

Perseverance The person with true perseverance is one who keeps trying even though the outcome does not seem to be bright. Being the type of person who tries one's hardest and does not quit when faced with the smallest of adversity.

Caring In general, this means, treating others as one wants to be treated by others, with compassion and understanding.

Honesty Honesty is the act of being trustworthy and acting with integrity. Anyone can do the right thing when others are watching but it takes a person of high integrity to do the right thing when no one is watching.

Self-discipline To have this trait you must give your best in all situations. This applies when comments are directed towards you that are less than stellar. Having control over ones emotions and avoiding childish arguments online is of utmost importance.

Citizenship Being law abiding and involved in honest, true service to school, community and country. To act online as if one would in an actual brick and mortar world shows citizenship of the strongest kind.

Integrity to be person of integrity, one must be honest, trustworthy and incorruptible. Integrity is an integral part of being a trustworthy and important part of any online community

Courage doing the right thing in face of difficulty and following your conscience instead of the crowd. Sometimes the right thing may not be the popular thing and those who do it despite its lack of popularity are the ones with the most courage.

Fairness is the act of cooperating with one another. Recognizing the uniqueness and value of each individual within our diverse society and treating every individual of an online community the same is an example of fairness.

Respect showing high regard for an authority, other people, self and country. Treating others as you would want to be treated. Understanding that all people have value as human beings.

Patriotism love for and honest loyalty to one's country whether online or off.

If one takes these character education traits and applies them to online communities, then a lot of the unrest, anger, resentment and online altercations could be avoided. Simple though they may be, implemented wisely could well make the difference between a community that works and one that ends up in a dot com graveyard. For everyone wants to be treated with respect and dignity and no one wants to be in a community that is anything but fair.