Tool 11: Digital Citizenship

As with many skills taught in the classroom, teachers should model good practices of digital etiquette and responsible social interactions related to technology to make certain all students understand the importance of digital citizenship. Having students discuss and role-play scenarios will give them the opportunity to demonstrate their understanding of digital citizenship. In our classroom, teaching PK students to work with the iTouches at a designated table and putting them away properly at the end of the session is part of learning appropriate digital citizenship. Allowing them to choose apps to work with teaches them to take the initiative in the own learning and demonstrates personal responsibility for lifelong learning. Student's positive attitude toward using technology happens naturally when they are given opportunities to share their discoveries, successes, and challenges. This teaches them to share their findings and collaborate with each other. As for teaching productivity, new technology gives students an array of choices in creating works that appeal to them, their peers, and the community. Digital citizenship is as important as taking responsibility for the care of our planet.