Equitable Access to Technology
Technology can be a very empowering tool for students. It is no secret that not all students have access to the same technology, which creates a very negative gap in our culture. In our school systems, it is a requirement for students to have digital access for their coursework. It is our responsibility as educators to ensure each student is given equal opportunities to complete and learn their coursework. A lack of equitable access to technology and information deprives students of learning experiences and can limit their opportunities long after graduation. This inequity is further worsened by the need for distance learning this school year. Due to COVID-19, all education systems have been pushed into the virtual learning world. The inclusion of technology to each of our students is a step into bridging the learning gap.
Ethical Use of Technology
Students begin using devices very early in their life. In our district, these students have been assigned a Chromebook since Kindergarten. They are very knowledgeable about which behaviors are appropriate for educational technology, however I recommend setting clear expectations for your classroom and how they should treat their technology. The following are topics you should address with them:
Take care of technology equipment.
Self-image in the virtual world- social media, email, how they present themselves.
Follow all online rules set by the district- emails are MONITORED.
Be responsible & careful.
Our Social Responsibility
We all know our students highly prioritize social media by this stage of their life. They post anything they are thinking, feeling, and want other people to know. However, this image they create could follow them around in later years of life. It is our responsibility as educators to teach them the importance of being a responsible digital citizen. Begin by explaining the lasting impact social media has by having them create a "digital footprint". Then, each teacher should model appropriate virtual behaviors. There are many ways to do this, but an interactive lesson would be very effective for this lesson. Next, give them ways to decide if a post on social media is necessary. Last, conclude with their feedback. I recommend having them discuss with you the factors of social media and really push the fact that it WILL stay with them forever. It is also very helpful to get parents involved with this lesson. Educators can teach them proper way, but the reinforcement at home is beneficial.