Digital Citizenship
Each time you use the Internet at school and at home, you need to stop and think about what you are saying and doing. Keep personal information and passwords private. Respect yourself and others with all that you say and do. Stand up to cyberbullies. Don't plagiarize or steal others' work. And balance your time between online and other activities.
Copyright, Public Domain, and Fair Use
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What is copyright? Well, it is your protection as an author or creator to keep others from copying or using your work without permission. Some online sources are in the public domain which means anyone can use them for free. There is also a limitation to copyright called fair use. It says it MAY BE OKAY to use small amounts of copyrighted material for noncommercial, educational purposes.
When you need media...
In his book Playing with Media (Speed of Creativity Learning, 2011), Wesley Fryer suggests the following mneumonic to remember copyright and fair use guidelines:
HARRY POTTER CAN FLY
- H = Homegrown
- P = Public Domain
- C = Creative Commons
- F = Fair Use
Homegrown means media you create yourself.
Public Domain works are shared by everyone with no need for permission to use.
Creative Commons licensed media are shared with permission already granted for you to use as long as you follow the terms.
Fair Use allows some use of copyrighted works for educational use without permission.
**Check out the Creation Resources page on this website for great public domain resource options.
Practicing Digital Citizenship Skills
One of the most important components of digital citizenship is keeping yourself and your information safe online. The FBI's Safe Online Surfing program is a great way to learn and review what you need to know to ensure that safety. Give it a try! Click on the SOS button at right and choose your grade level to start surfing.
Interland is a great place to go to learn and practice the skills to "Be Internet Awesome." Click the picture on the left to get started!
Mindful Mountain - Share with Care
Tower of Treasure - Secure Your Secrets
Kind Kingdom - It's Cool to Be Kind
Reality River - Don't Fall for Fake