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DIGITAL & SOCIAL MEDIA ETHICS
DIGITAL & SOCIAL MEDIA ETHICS
KEY CONCEPTS
KEY CONCEPTS
Key Concepts
Key Concepts
1. Digital Citizenship
Definition:
Digital citizenship is the practice of using technology responsibly, ethically, and effectively. It includes respectful online behavior, protecting personal and professional data, avoiding cyberbullying, and critically evaluating the content we share and consume. A strong digital citizen understands their digital footprint and how it can impact their reputation and relationships.
Example:
Before reposting a viral news article on social media, a student checks the original source to verify the facts. This prevents the spread of misinformation and demonstrates responsibility.
SHSM Link (Communications & Technology):
In tech and media careers, spreading false information—intentionally or not—can damage brand trust, invite legal challenges, or lead to disciplinary action at work. Understanding digital responsibility is essential for maintaining credibility and public trust.
2. Consent & Privacy
2. Consent & Privacy
Definition:
This refers to the ethical and legal responsibility to get permission before sharing someone else’s personal content—whether it's a photo, message, video, or data. Respecting privacy also means safeguarding sensitive information and knowing what is and isn’t appropriate to share online.
Example:
A student takes an embarrassing photo of a friend and shares it on a group chat without their permission. Even if meant as a joke, this breaches trust and may violate privacy laws or school policies.
Key Concepts:
Always ask before tagging, posting, or forwarding someone else's content.
Understand privacy settings on apps and social platforms.
Recognize that screenshots and screen recordings can be misused.
SHSM Link (Health & Wellness):
Sharing client or patient information—even unintentionally—can break confidentiality rules, harm trust, and lead to serious legal consequences.
ACTIVITY:
ACTIVITY:
My Digital Impact Audit
My Digital Impact Audit
Students complete a short audit of their social media presence by responding to the following questions in your workbook in a paragraph.
Students complete a short audit of their social media presence by responding to the following questions in your workbook in a paragraph.
What values are reflected in your posts?
Would you be comfortable with your future employer seeing your posts? Why or why not?
What steps could you take to improve your digital footprint? Explain.
3. Online Accountability
3. Online Accountability
Definition:
Online accountability means recognizing that what we say or do online reflects on us personally and professionally. Digital actions—comments, likes, posts, or shares—leave a permanent trail that employers, schools, or clients may view in the future.
Example:
A student applies for a co-op placement, but the employer finds offensive posts from their social media accounts. Even though they were posted years ago, these still impact the student's chances of being hired.
SHSM Link (Arts & Culture):
In creative fields, your online presence is often your portfolio. A poor reputation—such as being disrespectful online or sharing uncredited work—can damage future collaborations, funding opportunities, or public image.
4. Cyber-Ethics
4. Cyber-Ethics
Definition:
Cyber-ethics involves applying moral principles to technology use, including honesty, fairness, and respect in digital spaces. This includes avoiding activities like plagiarism, hacking, cyberbullying, and unauthorized use of digital tools or content.
Example:
A student uses an AI tool to write an assignment but doesn’t disclose it. Even if the tool helped, failing to acknowledge it is dishonest and can violate academic integrity policies.
Key Areas of Focus:
Plagiarism: Copying online content without citation.
Hacking: Unauthorized access to networks or accounts.
Respect: Treating others with dignity in all digital interactions.
AI Use: Being transparent about the role of AI tools in your work.
SHSM Link (Business & Tech):
In careers that rely on innovation and digital tools, ethical misuse of software (like unlicensed apps or using AI deceptively) can result in job loss, lawsuits, or professional bans.
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