Description: We often use our phones or other devices without even thinking about it. But paying closer attention to how -- and how much -- we use digital media can help us find better balance in our lives. Challenge students to truly consider how digital media adds to -- or takes away from -- their overall quality of life.
Essential Question: What is the role of digital media in our lives?
Learning Targets
Students will be able to:
Lesson Plan
Description: Many of us are aware that we're being tracked when we go online. It's one of the ways our favorite websites and apps know how to recommend content just for us. But how much information are companies actually collecting? And what are they doing with it? Digging into the details can help us make smart decisions about our online privacy and how to protect it.
Essential Question: What are the benefits and drawbacks of online tracking?
Learning Targets
Students will be able to:
Lesson Plan:
Description: Tagging friends on social media is a great way to connect with others and capture memorable experiences. But what if they don't want to be tagged? Encourage your students to take responsibility for how they may affect the digital footprints of others.
Essential Question: How can you respect the privacy of others online?
Learning Targets
Students will be able to:
Lesson Plan
Description: Getting to know someone online, without nonverbal cues or being able to see them, can be risky -- from simple misunderstandings to manipulation. Help students navigate and avoid these situations before they go too far.
Essential Question: How can you tell when an online relationship is risky?
Learning Targets
Students will be able to:
Lesson Plan
Description: We've all faced thorny situations where what we say or do could potentially harm or hurt someone. Being honest is important, but is there such a thing as being too honest? Sometimes, innocent -- but insensitive -- comments can easily escalate to digital drama or even cyberbullying. Help students recognize and navigate these types of situations that happen online.
Essential Question: How can we act with empathy and positivity when we're online?
Learning Targets
Students will be able to:
Lesson Plan
Description: We know not to believe everything we hear, but what about what we see? Advancements in computer-generated graphics, facial recognition, and video production have led to a world of viral videos that are often difficult to identify as fake. Help your students learn to read what they see on the web "laterally" by showing them how to get off the page, check credibility, and find corroboration.
Essential Question: How can you avoid being fooled by fake videos and other information online?
Learning Targets
Students will be able to:
Lesson Plan
Hoaxes and Fakes