6.4 Digital Citizenship

What is Digital Citizenship?

Digital citizenship refers to the responsible use of technology by anyone who uses computers, the internet, and digital devices to engage with society on any level.

Key Aspects of Digital Citizenship

  • Digital literacy
  • Online safety and security
  • Digital etiquette
  • Digital rights and responsibilities
  • Digital health and wellness

The 9 Elements of Digital Citizenship

1. Digital Access

Full electronic participation in society. Ensuring everyone has access to technology and the internet.

2. Digital Commerce

Electronic buying and selling of goods. Understanding online shopping safety and digital marketplaces.

3. Digital Communication

Electronic exchange of information. Learning appropriate and effective digital communication.

4. Digital Literacy

Teaching and learning about technology and its use. Understanding how to use digital tools effectively.

5. Digital Etiquette

Electronic standards of conduct or procedure. Behaving appropriately online.

6. Digital Law

Electronic responsibility for actions and deeds. Understanding laws related to technology use.

7. Digital Rights & Responsibilities

Those freedoms extended to everyone in a digital world. Understanding your rights and responsibilities online.

8. Digital Health & Wellness

Physical and psychological well-being in a digital technology world. Maintaining balance and well-being.

9. Digital Security

Electronic precautions to guarantee safety. Protecting your information and identity online.

Responsible Digital Citizenship

Be Respectful

Treat others with respect in all online interactions. Remember there's a real person behind every screen.

Protect Privacy

Respect your own and others' privacy. Think before sharing personal information.

Respect Intellectual Property

Give credit for others' work and respect copyright laws.

Think Before You Post

Consider the potential impact of your online actions and words.

Your Digital Footprint

Understanding Your Digital Footprint

Everything you do online leaves a trail of information. This includes:

  • Social media posts and comments
  • Photos and videos you share
  • Websites you visit
  • Online purchases and searches
  • Location data from your devices

Managing Your Digital Footprint

  • Regularly review your privacy settings
  • Think before you post
  • Google yourself periodically
  • Be mindful of what others post about you
  • Consider the long-term implications of your online actions

Addressing Cyberbullying

What is Cyberbullying?

The use of digital technologies to deliberately and repeatedly harm, harass, or intimidate others.

Prevention & Response

  • Don't respond to or forward harmful messages
  • Save the evidence
  • Block the bully
  • Report the behavior to the platform
  • Talk to a trusted adult or authority figure
  • Support the target and be an upstander, not a bystander

Knowledge Check

1. Which of the following is NOT one of the 9 elements of digital citizenship?

2. What should you do if you witness cyberbullying?