Digital citizenship is about using technology responsibly, ethically, and safely (Choi, 2016; Mossberger et al., 2007; Ribble, 2015). As students interact with AI and digital tools, they need to understand privacy, personal information, and respectful online behavior. This section introduces key topics like student privacy, managing personal data, and the importance of digital citizenship.
(Source: Creative Commons)
Digital citizenship refers to the norms of appropriate, responsible, ethical, and effective participation in digital environments, encompassing the skills, knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors needed to access, evaluate, create, and interact with digital content and communities in ways that respect rights, promote wellβbeing, and enable civic engagement (Choi, 2016; Mossberger et al., 2007; Ribble, 2015).Β
π½Video Run Time: 10:00 mins
π½Click to watch the full video before answering the questions below.
Video Overview:
Understand and protect student data by knowing what is collected, limiting unnecessary data, setting retention timelines, and using secure settings like passwords and access controls.
Ensure compliance with privacy laws by using EdTech tools that align with FERPA and other relevant regulations and are approved by the district.
Choose EdTech purposefully, focusing on tools that offer clear educational value rather than novelty.
Communicate transparently with families about the tools being used and the type of data collected.
Promote digital citizenship by teaching students about media literacy, privacy, responsible online behavior, and emotional wellness.
π After watching the video, answer the following in your Guided Overview.
1. How do you currently communicate with families about EdTech tools used in your classroom? How can you improve transparency with families regarding the use of EdTech?
2. What are some ways to incorporate digital citizenship skills into your daily lessons?
3. Are there any EdTech tools you are using that have not been evaluated for privacy by your school?
π½Video Run Time: 1:32 mins
π½Click to watch the full video before answering the question below.
Video Overview:
Self-identity is personal and includes your personality, preferences, and life experiences.
Sharing online can be a positive way to connect with others, preserve memories, and share idea but it's important to pause and think before you post.
Always protect private information, such as your full name, address, or date of birth, and never share it without permission from a trusted adult.
A good rule of thumb: personal info may be okay to share, but private info is off-limits.
Be mindful about what you post and who can see it whether itβs friends, communities, or the public.
π After watching the video, answer the following in your Guided Overview.
4. How do you help your students understand the difference between personal and private information, and support them in making safe, thoughtful choices when sharing online?
π½Video Run Time: 3:51 mins
π½Click to watch the full video before answering the question below.Β
Video Overview:
Teach students that their online behavior reflects their character, just like in real life, and emphasize the importance of respect and wise decision-making in digital spaces.
Focus on foundational digital citizenship skills such as digital literacy, online communication, etiquette, and security.
Help students evaluate online information by guiding them in recognizing credible and appropriate sources.
Model respectful digital communication by reinforcing positive social skills, conflict resolution, and responsible online interactions.
Encourage students to connect their digital and real-world behaviors, understanding that both require the same values and level of respect.
π After watching the video, answer the following in your Guided Overview.
5. How are you intentionally integrating lessons on digital citizenship, such as online etiquette, safety, and communication into your daily teaching to prepare students for learning and living responsibly in both digital and real-world communities?Β
Why these videos matter:
Focus on awareness gaps
β’ They demonstrate what many students don't realize -- that their data isn't just private but also collected, analyzed, or even monetized without their knowledge.
Highlight real consequences
β’ From security risks to personal privacy, each video illustrates scenarios where AI-powered tools can misuse student data if not adequately managed.
Support for teaching digital citizenship
β’ These succinct videos reinforce the myth-busting message: students do not already know how to protect their data, so we must teach digital citizenship proactively, rather than assuming they do.
To help students navigate the complexities of the digital age responsibly and ethically, educators need to emphasize the importance of digital citizenship. "Digital citizenship is more than just a teaching tool; it is a way to prepare students for a society full of technology."Β
(Ribble, 2012, p. 2)
Once you finish answering all questions in Section 2.2, click 'Next' to continue to Section 2.3.