Digital Citizenship: Education for a Connected Society

The Internet may be the closest thing to the Wild West that any of us will ever experience. It's a space that allows for free roam without restriction, whether it is on the web, through a chat client, or some other up and coming technology. With each passing day, we all experience a more connected life. As we continue to live online, and new users along with younger generations also become acquainted with enjoying the freedom, it is important that education in use and responsibility is part of the process.

As the Internet has matured, guidelines and other safeguards have been put in place; however, the system changes and it is always far from perfect. With every new connection, online purchase, social network update, or Google search arrives a new digital opportunity - for better or worse. Realistically, regardless of the system in question, the responsibility of our actions falls upon ourselves.

In the field of education, the concept of Digital Citizenship has been put to use in order to help users and students better understand the importance of the appropriate use of technology in today's society. Below is a brief overview of the nine elements that make up Digital Citizenship.

Digital Access

Digital access is defined as the fair and equal participation in the digital realm. In other words, society should be allowed fair and equal access to technology.

Digital Commerce

Digital Commerce is concerned with the legitimate purchasing and selling of goods online. As more business is done online, consumers should be aware of issues such as purchasing illegal goods or fraud that exists in a digital economy.

Digital Communication

Digital Communication covers the methods for communicating and collaborating with one another. Communication should not be restricted, however, user need to be aware of the appropriate use of the tools and content.

Digital Etiquette

Digital Etiquette deals with the standards of behavior and conduct when acting as a digital citizen. A definite hotspot in today's society, etiquette issues are recognized daily in blog postings, social network updates, and mobile phone use.

Digital Health & Wellness

Digital Health & Wellness involves physical well-being, as well as emotional or psychological health. Too often, online addictions take over for many users, which in turn have a negative impact on physical health, hygiene, emotions, and more.

Digital Law

Digital Law addresses performing unethical actions online. Piracy, hacking, and identity theft are examples of the issues that are widespread.

Digital Literacy

Digital Literacy deals with both the teaching and learning of the correct use of technology. Literacy not only deals with appropriate use, but the use of relevant technologies that present in schools and the workplace.

Digital Rights & Responsibilities

Digital Rights & Responsibilities extends the idea of the right to free speech and privacy along with acting responsibly in regards to those aspects.

Digital Security

Digital Security offers information on safety, precautions, and protection. As digital citizens, we must protect not only our data, but ourselves.

More information and resources for the classroom can be found below.

Sources/Resources:

ISTE Publications, Digital Citizenship in Schools by Mike Ribble and Gerald Bailey, copyright 2007, ISBN No: 978-1-56484-232-9.

Digital Citizenship on the Web