The concept of being a digital citizen goes beyond the means of what is acceptable to post on your private social media pages. Being a digital citizen goes much deeper than the surface screen level we all are used to. As we learned in class, a digital citizen is an individual who can use technology correctly and efficiently. Teachers are expected to be good digital citizens as we are often held to a higher standard. This includes positively using technology. In today’s teaching climate, technology has become more prevalent and relevant. The concept of digital citizenship also goes beyond teaching our students how to “surf” the web and using a mouse. Being a good teacher and digital citizen goes beyond our screens. We must teach it forward. We as educators must teach our students how to properly and safely use technology. Teaching our students to be good digital citizens can also help aid them in their educational journey in understanding the boundaries and limitations of technology. Online safety isn’t the only digital tool that students can use. Safe technological uses can help them behave responsibly and help them maintain their mental health and well-being. Teaching has evolved dramatically over the past decade. Technology has become an interwoven aspect and tool that many teaches have adopted into their classrooms. Like in any class, teachers are to model their desired behaviours, including their digital footprint, use of technology in and out of the classroom.
January 18, 2022