What does the strand say? Through technology integration, students practice safe, responsible, legal, and ethical behavior while using digital tools and resources.
What does this mean for students? This very important strand is one that should be used whenever a student is using a technology tool. Digital citizenship is the idea that students are kind, safe, and responsible when they are online. When working in an online environment, whether at school or at home, students should be mindful of their actions and the actions of others in the online community. When collecting information online, students should always practice responsibly using the content they use, including fair use guidelines and copyright laws. Students should always protect and honor the individual online privacy of themselves and others.
What does this look like in the classroom?
Students should understand that when they go online they are part of a larger digital community. Teachers should speak with students about internet safety, such as what to do when ads popup during a keyword search or who to talk to when anyone requests personal information. Teachers should consider posting student expectations for using online resources at locations in the class where students will use the technology. Be Internet Awesome by Google is a great way for students to learn the basics of internet safety in the classroom.