Nine elements of digital citizenship

Nine elements of digital citizenship

What is Digital Access?

The ability to draw upon the means with which to use ICTs: this includes the full range of ICT hardware and software required to engage with ICT-based practices; ICT-based content and services which are relevant and useful to an individual’s needs and interests; the requisite social and technical support, skills and know-how to support an individual’s use of ICT-based practices.

 Digital Access is about the equitable distribution of technology and online resources. Teachers and administrators need to be aware of their community and who may or may not have access, not only in school but at home as well. Educators need to provide options for lessons and data collection such as free access in the community or provide resources for the home.

2.   Digital Commerce is the electronic buying and selling of goods and focuses on the tools and safeguards in place to assist those buying, selling, banking, or using money in any way in the digital space. Career and technical education use the tools of technology to show students the path for their future.

3.   Digital Communication is the electronic exchange of information. All users need to define how they will share their thoughts so that others understand the message. For students struggling to understand their place in the world, technology can help them find their own voices and express themselves.

4.   Digital Etiquette refers to electronic standards of conduct or procedures and has to do with the process of thinking about others when using digital devices. Teachers can include Digital Etiquette as part of the classroom rules or academic goals. Whether in the classroom or online, being aware of others is an important idea for everyone.

5. Digital literacy is the process of understanding technology and its use. The better educated or “digitally fluent,” students are, the more likely they are to make good decisions online, like supporting others instead of making negative comments. Digital literacy includes the discussion of media literacy and the ability to discern good information from poor, such as “fake news” from real news. 

6.   Digital Health and Wellness refers to the physical and psychological well-being in a digital world. Technology provides many opportunities and enjoyment, but knowing how to segment use with the needs of ourselves and others is key to a healthy, balanced life. Educators, especially in 1:1 school or classrooms need to ask the question of how much screen time is appropriate for students. Common Sense Media has developed a guide on this topic.

7.   Digital Law refers to the electronic responsibility for actions and deeds and has to do with the creation of rules and policies that address issues related to the online world. Just as in the real world, the online world had to create a structure to protect those using these digital devices from harm. Support for issues such as cyberbullying and sexting are available from School Resource Officers and other school councils. Administrators need to come up with positive approaches to these issues in their schools and districts.

8.   Digital Rights and Responsibility are those requirements and freedoms extended to everyone in a digital world. This area of Digital Citizenship is about helping students understand that when they are provided opportunities, such as the access to the Internet and use of online products, they need to be diligent in helping others as well, such as informing adults of potential problems. Educators must help students understand that protecting others both online and in the real world are essential skills to have.

9.   Digital Security is the electronic precautions to guarantee safety. Viruses, worms and other bots can be passed along from one system to another just like an illness. When using devices in school or at home, understanding and being aware of attacks and how to prevent them are important skills for today and into the future.