Digital Citizenship

Digital citizenship refers to knowing and understanding how to properly use all types of technology that are present in today’s society. There are many benefits and opportunities that are made available by technology today. However, it is crucial that all technology users are informed and cautious about the potential dangers as well. The course text discusses issues with technology “in four areas: societal, educational, cultural/equity, and legal/ethical” (Roblyer & Doering, p. 13, 2010).

There are some risks that accompany technology that could affect the quality of life. Spyware is one of the dangers/issues when dealing with technology. The course text defines spyware as “software that is placed on a computer without the user’s knowledge for the purpose of gathering information about them (usually to sell to marketing firms)” (Roblyer & Doering, p. 13, 2010). Before reading chapter one of the course text, I had never been exposed to spyware or its capabilities. It is important for us, as technology users, to learn all of the advantages and disadvantages of technology use. As a frequent technology user, it is essential that I am aware of programs such as spyware and the different types of “malicious software” that could hinder the use and function of my computer.


The overuse of technology can also create problems for its users. Roblyer and Doering state “that very high use of computers correlates with health issues such as higher body mass and lowered physical activity” (Roblyer & Doering, p. 16. 2010). It is a high concern of schools today to help control obesity levels in children. This is seen from the healthy choices of snacks given by the snack machines, and also by the choices of food students are given in the lunchroom. Although diet plays a crucial role in staying healthy, it is also important that physical activity not be overlooked. Computers are not the only type of technology that affects the physical health of users, specifically the younger generation. Video games, cell phones, and other electronic devices also aid in keeping users sedentary instead of engaged in physical activity. Of course, we cannot and should not stop using technology; we just have to learn how to successfully integrate it into our daily lives so other areas of our lives, especially our health, are not neglected. There is no doubt that social networking has become an integral part of the technology world.

Although many aspects of social networking are advantageous, there are some risks that go along with it. Cyberbullying is one of those risks. Roblyer and Doering define cyberbulling as “online harassment in social networks [that] is a growing concern that mirrors similar bullying on school campuses” (Roblyer & Doering, p. 16, 2010). As a classroom teacher, I have been given sufficient information on how to identify different signs of bullying. Students that have been bullied, whether in person or through online harassment, tend to show signs such as lower grades, desire to skip school, depression, and other changes in behavior. Cyberbullying is an issue linked to social networking that has shown no signs of stopping; in fact, it has continued to get worse. For this reason, it is important that students are taught the correct ways to use social media and technology in general. Technology is an integral part of today’s society, and it is imperative students learn to successfully incorporate it into their daily lives because it will only become more prominent. However, it is equally important that students, as well as all technology users, learn to be good digital citizens.

This is a link to a website that presents and discusses the nine elements of digital citizenship.

http://www.digitalcitizenship.net/Nine_Elements.html

References

"Overuse of Technology Linked to Changes in Teens Mental Health." Birmingham Maple Clinic.

                 

Retrieved from  http://www.birminghammaple.com/7931/bmc-blog/overuse-of-technology-linked-to-changes-in-teens-mental-health/    

Roblyer, M. D., & Doering, A. H.  (2013).  Integrating educational technology into teaching. Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc.            

"What Is Cyberbullying." Home.

Retrieved from http://www.stopbullying.gov/cyberbullying/what-is-it/index.html

"What Is Spyware?" What Is Spyware & How to Prevent It.

Retrieved from http://www.microsoft.com/security/pc-security/spyware-whatis.aspx

As an educator, it is crucial that I give my students all the information and tools they need to be good digital citizens. #ED505UWARAY
— Kristen Walker (@kristenwalker81) June 11, 2013