Digital Citizenship Laura Assem, Director of Technology

WHAT IS DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP? Each day the world is becoming increasingly digital. Your students begin to use more and more technology devices at home and in the classroom. But, are they prepared to be good digital citizens? Just as you teach your students the rules of society, it is imperative that you teach them the rules of the digital world, and how to be safe and responsible with technology. The nine elements of digital citizenship were identified after evaluating hundreds of articles, books, and news broadcasts related to technology use, misuse, and abuse. These nine elements focus on today’s issues, though they have the flexibility to accommodate technology changes in the foreseeable future.

ELEMENT ONE - RESPECT Digital Access: Advocating for equal digital rights and access is where digital citizenship starts. Digital Etiquette: Rules and policies aren’t enough - we need to teach everyone about appropriate conduct online. Digital Law: It’s critical that users understand it’s a crime to steal or damage another’s digital work, identity or property.

ELEMENT TWO - EDUCATE Digital Communication: With so many communication options available, users need to learn how to make appropriate decisions. Digital Literacy: We need to teach students how to learn in a digital society. Digital Commerce: As users make more purchases online, they must understand how to be effective consumers in a digital economy

ELEMENT THREE - PROTECT Digital Rights & Responsibilities: We must inform people of their basic digital rights to privacy, freedom of speech, etc. Digital Safety & Security: Digital citizens need to know how to protect their information from outside forces that might cause harm. Digital Health & Wellness: From physical issues, such as repetitive stress syndrome, to psychological issues, such as internet addiction, users should understand the health risks of technology.

For Additional Information or Resources Empower your students to think critically, behave safely, and participate responsibly in their digital lives.