EL 120- Technology for Teaching and Learning (Technology in

Language Education)

21st Century Skills

EDE 2B GROUP 1:
Ablazo, Kristine Mae A.
Aguimod, Dea Nichole D.
Atason, Weniza B.
Atugan, Jessel F.
Bastian, Princess Mae P.
Baya, Jhea Marg M.
Betican, Princess Grace M.
Cabrera, Maria Celeste A.
 Capungas, Ishe Lyca M.
Reporter: Baya, Jhea Marg

OVERVIEW
In today's technology-driven, diverse, and rapidly changing world, it is
essential for teachers to equip students with skills that would help them in
their future. The 21st century has brought significant shifts, particularly in
the economy, marking a transition from the industrial age to the
knowledge age. These changes require students to adapt and develop
skills that will prepare them for a dynamic, information-based global
society.
Definition: 21st century skills are a set of abilities that are important
for success in the modern world. These skills include communication,
critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. They are also known as "21st
century learning skills". These 21st century skills are believed, by
educators, school reformers, college professors, employers, and others to
be critically important to success in today's world, particularly in college
programs and contemporary careers and workplaces. Primarily in all
educational, career, since these 21st century skills can be used in all
academic subjects throughout a student's life.
21st century skills are divided and categorized into 3 namely: Learning
Innovation and Skills, which include creativity, Innovation, critical
thinking, problem solving, communication and collaboration. Information,
Media and Technology Skills, which involve information literacy, media
literacy and ICT life. Life and Career Skills, which entail flexibility,
adaptability, initiative, self-direction, social and cross-cultural skills,
productivity and accountability, leadership. Instructing 21st century skills
has thus become a key initiative, especially over the last decade, and part
of the educational policy agenda. Tahirsylaj and Sundberg (2020) 21st
Century skills have always been important, they’ve become essential in a
worldwide market that moves faster by the day.
These skills all double back to one key focus: a person's ability to enact
and/or adapt to change. This is because any world is capable of changing
at a moment’s notice. Each time the demands are also evolving. With that
in mind, the world has entered an era where nothing is guaranteed. As a
result, students need to learn to guide the change that will improve and
secure the future of their lives. At the very least, they need to learn how to
deal and adapt to it. Otherwise, they’ll be left behind.

Reporter: Betican, Princess Grace

Communication is the process of sharing and understanding

information. It's the process of exchanging ideas, thoughts, and feelings
with others. It involves conveying and receiving information through a
range of verbal and non-verbal means. Communication skills refer to the
abilities used to convey, receive, and interpret messages effectively.
Communication skills give you the ability to effectively and efficiently
communicate your thoughts and ideas. In order to be a good
communicator you must have effective communication skills, written
below are 3 core communication skills an individual must possess in order
to be a good communicator.
First, we have clear and concise expression. This means that when
you convey a message whether in writing or speaking, make sure that it is
clear, concise, and can understood by the listener or receiver. Avoid
unnecessary details and don’t use highfalutin words to not confuse your
audience. Make sure that you tailor your message in a way that your
receiver can understand. For instance, you're writing an email to your
professor or instructor so that you'll be excused from class and your email
says " I can't attend your class today, hope you'll consider. So that
message is actually not clear and it's disrespectful. Instead, you should
start your message with a greeting, and then State your purpose clearly,
and then give your excuse as to why you can't attend the class. And make
sure that your message is polite and respectful.
Next, is active listening. This involves fully concentrating on the
speaker, thoroughly comprehending their message, and responding
thoughtfully. It's not just about hearing the words, but also about paying
attention to nonverbal cues like tone. Active listening shows the speaker
that you give importance to what they're saying and helps build better
communication.
Lastly, we have critical thinking. This skill requires you to analyze
information carefully, identify any biases or assumptions, and form well-
reasoned arguments. It means not just accepting information that easily
but you should also question and evaluate its credibility. For instance, the
comprehensive education sexuality bill, a lot of people on the internet
think that this bill encourages 6-9-year-old children to be sexually active.
Even the president thinks that this bill will teach 4-year-olds how to
masturbate which is completely wrong. This just shows that someone
does not use critical thinking which leads to that individual making a not
well reasoned argument.
In conclusion, communication skills is one of the critical success skills
in the 21st century. Having communication skills is seen as an essential
tool to succeed and thrive in today's world, it would be easier for
individuals to find employment. With effective communication, individuals
find it easier to secure employment, build valuable relationships, and
excel in their careers. Being able to articulate thoughts clearly, listen
actively, and engage positively with others can open doors to numerous
opportunities.

Reporter: Aguimod, Dea Nichole

The Partnership for 21st Century Learning highlights the importance of

learning key subjects like English, reading, and language arts while
building essential skills, including communication and technology literacy.
To become strong communicators, students need to develop important
abilities, such as understanding information, sharing ideas effectively, and
using technology to enhance their communication.
Comprehension of Information is a basic skill that helps students
make sense of the written, spoken, and visual information they encounter
every day. To do this well, students need to carefully read texts or watch
videos and focus on important details while understanding different
perspectives. A step-by-step approach to reading can make this process
easier. For example, before reading, students can make predictions about
what the text might say by looking at headings, images, or key sections.
They can also review and learn difficult words ahead of time so they don’t
get stuck later. During reading, it’s helpful to underline or highlight key
points and write short notes or questions in the margins. After reading,
students can reflect on what they learned, what surprised them, and what
they might need to read again. This process not only helps them
understand what they read but also builds their confidence in analyzing
and using information.
 Sharing Ideas and Information is about creating messages that are
clear and engaging for the audience. Whether it’s through speaking,
writing, or multimedia, students should think about what their audience
needs and how best to deliver their ideas. Being a good communicator
also means being an active participant in discussions—listening to others,
giving useful feedback, and sharing your own thoughts in a respectful
way. Using nonverbal cues, such as body language or tone of voice, can
make a message even more effective. Communication today also involves
working with others through digital tools, like social media or collaboration
platforms, where students can share ideas, learn from others, and
connect with people from different backgrounds. These interactions help
students develop not only their communication skills but also their
understanding of different cultures and viewpoints.
In summary, understanding information and sharing ideas are key skills
that prepare students to communicate well in today’s world. By practicing
these skills and using both traditional and modern tools, students can
confidently express themselves, connect with others, and make sense of
the information they encounter.

Reporter: Ablazo, Kristine Mae

Information Communication Technology is to improve the way

humans create, process and share data or information with each other.
Another is to help them improve their abilities in numerous areas,
including business; education; medicine; real-world problem-solving; and
even leisure activities related to sports, music, and movies. (Awati and
Pratt 2023).
Implementation of Information Communication Technology is very
important because it makes learning or sharing information much easier
and more effective. It is not just using technology for the sake of it, but
using it in a way that really helps people understand, present, share
information better. Like for instance, in the classroom teachers use
interactive digital app like Kahoot or google classroom to help student
learn. Instead of just reading the textbook, students might watch
educational videos, collaborate online projects, or access interactive
quizzes that enhance their understanding. ICT provides readily accessible
information from any location, significantly improving academic
performance, particularly for students with disabilities. Research by
Yngve and Lidström (2023) in Sweden confirms this, showing improved
academic outcomes for students with neurodevelopmental disorders
through the use of ICT.
Recognition of cultural and diverse differences means actively
acknowledging and understanding that people from different backgrounds
have unique beliefs, values, customs, and behaviors shaped by their
culture, and respecting those differences without making assumptions or
judgments based on stereotypes; essentially, it's about embracing
diversity and fostering inclusivity by appreciating the richness brought by
different cultural perspectives.
Why is it important to embrace cultural diversity? To fosters
connections and builds meaningful bridges of understanding. By
demonstrating an appreciation for various cultural backgrounds, we can
create inclusive environments where more individuals feel seen and
valued. This cultivates trust, allowing for open dialogues, authentic
connections that enriches our lives and perspectives.
In conclusion, embracing cultural diversity and implementing
Information Communication Technology are both important for creating
inclusive, effective, and innovative environments. ICT enhances learning,
accessibility, and collaboration, while cultural diversity fosters
understanding, connection, and mutual respect.

Reporter: Capungas, Ishe Lyca

Communicating. There are dozens of ways we use technology to

communicate with each other. Sending an email to your teacher, posting a
video on Facebook, or calling your family using messenger count as
communicating online. This skill also includes creating documents and
sharing them with other people. You might use Microsoft Word or a similar
tool to create a piece of written work and then send it to somebody else
using email or Google Docs.
Keeping in touch with friends, family and loved ones is a very popular
motivator for getting a device and learning to use. There are a lot of ways
to do this, text messaging, social media or emails. During the pandemic,
video calling services such as Zoom, Teams and Google Meet have
become increasingly needed as people worked remotely or were unable
to travel.
The communication skills area requires students to demonstrate an
understanding of electronic communications, such as email and video
calls. Students will gain awareness and be able to use digital
communication for a range of contexts and audiences.
Handling information and content is all about how you save, share
and view different kinds of media online. This can be navigating a web
browser, sharing pictures with family or watching your favourite TV shows
on demand. Media can include documents, pictures or streaming services
like BBC iPlayer or Netflix. In a work context, this may be more focused
on how you save or share files in the cloud or log into a database from
different devices.
“Content” simply refers to the words, pictures, videos and other
material we see all around us. For this skill, you should be able to find the
content you need online and engage with it in a positive way. This might
include using search engines such as Google to find out information,
storing and organizing files on your device or in the cloud, and streaming
music and video from legal sources such as Netflix or Spotify. In your
work life, you might need to find information for a colleague or share it
with them securely. You may also want to sync devices so that certain
information – such as your calendar – is available on both your computer
and phone.
This skills area covers a basic understanding of hardware, software,
operating systems and commonly used applications. Students will develop
fundamental digital skills by learning how to manage and store
information, and identify and solve simple technical issues.

Reporter: Atason, Weniza

Transacting is an essential digital skill that involves shopping, banking,

and using online payment systems securely and efficiently. It enables you
to manage your money and conduct financial activities online while
ensuring the safety of your personal and financial information. Whether
you’re shopping on sites like Amazon, selling items on eBay, or checking
your bank account through an app, online transactions are a convenient
way to save time and money. For instance, you can purchase goods and
services from home and compare prices across vendors to find the best
deals. However, with convenience comes responsibility. To transact safely
online, it’s crucial to use strong passwords, avoid sharing sensitive
information, and only use secure, genuine websites and apps. Developing
basic digital skills, such as navigating websites, conducting secure
payments, and identifying online scams, is vital.
Problem-solving is the process of constructing and applying mental
representations of problems to find solutions, a skill that is critical in nearly
every context. In today's digital world, there are numerous ways
technology supports problem-solving. For instance, using Google to settle
a debate, watching a YouTube tutorial, or leveraging a spreadsheet for
calculations are everyday examples of digital problem-solving. In the
workplace, problem-solving is a vital skill that employers demand.
Managers prefer employees to attempt solutions independently before
seeking guidance, demonstrating initiative and resourcefulness.
Additionally, the unique and complex challenges of today require
individuals who can think creatively and work collaboratively.
In education, problem-solving extends beyond finding solutions. It
involves critical thinking, analysis, and applying knowledge to real-world
situations. Students who excel in these skills can break down complex
problems, devise strategies, and persevere through challenges. By
fostering these abilities, educators prepare students for academic success
and future opportunities. In the digital age, problem-solving is an
indispensable skill. It enables students to think critically, make informed
decisions, and navigate an ever-changing digital landscape. Teaching and
nurturing these skills equips learners with tools for success in their
personal and professional lives.
In conclusion, both transacting and problem-solving are essential digital
skills that empower individuals to navigate and thrive in today's digital
world. Transacting securely enables efficient management of finances,
promotes convenience, and ensures safety in online interactions.
Similarly, problem-solving fosters critical thinking, creativity, and
resourcefulness, equipping individuals with the ability to address
challenges effectively. By mastering these skills, individuals can
confidently manage their personal, academic, and professional
responsibilities, making informed decisions and adapting to the demands
of a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Reporter: Atugan, Jessel, F.

Being Safe & Legal Online

One great instrument linking all of us on Earth is the internet. Internet
has endless opportunities for learning, communication, and entertainment.
However these opportunities also have significant risks and
responsibilities that every internet user must acknowledge. While the
internet provide an open access to information and enables global
communication, it also have presents challenges related to privacy,
security, and ethical behavior. The vastness of the online world means
that users can easily encounter harmful content, misinformation, and
malicious things in the internet. That is why we have laws governing
online behavior, it is designed to protect individuals. For instance,
copyright laws ensure the safety of the creative works of individuals,
ensuring that creators receive recognition and compensation for their
efforts. We also have data protection regulations, to ensure that personal
information is collected, stored, and used responsibly. Violating these laws
can lead to severe consequences, including legal action, fines, and
damage to one’s reputation.
The Permanence of Online Actions
One thing that we should be careful of online behavior is the
permanence of what we post. Once something is shared on the internet, it
can be challenging to remove it entirely. Posting needs careful
consideration before sharing any content. Posts that may seem harmless
in the moment can have consequences, especially if they are hateful,
offensive, or damaging.
The Dangers of Cyberbullying and Online Harassment
Engaging in cyberbullying or online harassment not only reflects
poorly on the individual but it also also have legal consequences. For
example, here in the Philippines we have Cyber Libel, Conviction for
cyber libel can result in imprisonment ranging from six months and one
day to six years and fines up to ₱6,000. And such actions can lead to
emotional distress for victims and may violate laws designed to protect
individuals from harassment. It is essential to foster a culture of respect
and kindness online, recognizing that our words and actions can
significantly impact others.
Building Good Online Habits
 To navigate the digital landscape responsibly, it is vital to develop
good online habits. Here are some key practices:

a. Protecting Personal Information: Be cautious about the

personal information you share online. Oversharing can lead to privacy
breaches and identity theft. Always provide sensitive information only to
trusted and secure websites.
b. Using Strong Passwords: Creating strong, unique passwords
for each of your accounts is essential for maintaining account security.
Avoid using easily guessed information, such as birthdays or names, and
never share your passwords with anyone.
c. Detecting Suspicious Content: Being able to identify suspicious
content is crucial for online safety. Look out for red flags such as requests
for personal information, urgent or threatening language, and offers that
seem too good to be true. Recognizing these signs can help you avoid
scams and phishing attempts.

d. Installing Antivirus Software: Protect your devices by installing

and regularly updating antivirus software. This software helps guard
against malware, viruses, and other malicious programs, ensuring that
your devices remain secure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the internet offers incredible opportunities for
connection and learning, it is essential to approach it with caution and
responsibility. By understanding the legal implications of our online
actions, being mindful of the permanence of our posts, and adopting good
online habits, we can enjoy the benefits of the digital world while
protecting ourselves and others

Reporter: Bastian, Princess Mae

DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP
Digital Citizenship serves as a comprehensive framework that guides
educators, technology leaders, and parents in teaching appropriate
technology use to students and other users. It extends beyond being
merely an educational tool, functioning as a crucial preparation for life in
our technology-driven society. The concept encompasses the standards
and norms for responsible technology usage, addressing a growing
concern about technology misuse and abuse among both students and
adults. The challenge lies not only in addressing knowledge gaps but also
in establishing and communicating clear standards for appropriate
technology use, making it essential for creating a responsible digital
society.
Recent technological advancements have introduced digital tools
that enable people to share various forms of content and collaborate
globally through social media and virtual environments. The COVID-19
pandemic accelerated the adoption of these digital tools, making them
essential for students' educational and personal activities. As a result of
this increased technological dependence, there is now a crucial need to
educate students about responsible and safe online communication and
collaboration, ensuring they develop appropriate digital citizenship skills
for their daily interactions in virtual spaces. Schools must integrate digital
citizenship throughout their curriculum to establish a robust educational
culture, beginning with clear policies on acceptable technology use,
including guidelines for device handling, student accounts, cyberbullying
prevention, social media usage, and academic integrity. Educational
institutions are instrumental in developing students' 21st-century skills,
particularly technology literacy, which is crucial for fostering responsible
digital behavior and understanding the significance of digital citizenship.
The emphasis on digital etiquette and communication skills is fundamental
in helping students maintain appropriate and respectful online
interactions, preparing them for success in an increasingly digital world.
The elements of digital citizenship are as follows:
9 ELEMENTS OF DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP
Digital Access: Fully electronic participation in society. Can all
users participate in the digital society at an acceptable level at any time?
Digital Citizenship emphasizes the importance of recognizing and
addressing the digital divide, acknowledging that technology access is not
uniformly available to all members of society. The concept promotes the
fundamental principle of equal digital rights and universal electronic
access, as digital exclusion can significantly hinder societal progress in an
increasingly technology-dependent world. As responsible digital citizens,
we have a collective responsibility to support and expand technology
access, considering alternative resources for those with limited access.
The goal is to ensure that no individual is left behind in the digital age, as
universal digital access is crucial for developing a productive and inclusive
society where all citizens can participate and thrive in the modern digital
landscape.
Digital Commerce: Online shopping. Do users have the
knowledge and protection to shop in the digital world?
The digital marketplace has become a significant component of the
modern economy, with electronic transactions becoming increasingly
commonplace for a wide range of goods and services, from everyday
items like toys and clothing to major purchases such as vehicles. While
many of these transactions are legitimate and legal, users must be aware
of the associated risks and challenges in digital commerce. Alongside
legitimate business, there has been a rise in controversial or illegal
activities, including unauthorized downloading, pornography, and online
gambling, which may conflict with various countries' laws and moral
standards. This evolving digital economy necessitates that users develop
informed consumer skills to navigate online transactions safely and
legally, understanding both the opportunities and potential pitfalls of
electronic commerce.
Digital Communication: Electronic information exchange. Do
users understand digital communication methods and when they are
correct.
The digital revolution has dramatically transformed human
communication capabilities, marking a significant shift from the limited
communication methods of the 19th century to today's diverse array of
options. The 21st century has introduced numerous communication tools,
including email, cellular phones, and instant messaging, fundamentally
changing how people interact by enabling constant, instantaneous
communication with anyone, anywhere, at any time. This unprecedented
access to global communication and collaboration opportunities has
created new possibilities for connection and interaction. However, this
communication revolution has also revealed a critical gap in digital
literacy, as many users lack the necessary guidance and skills to navigate
these various communication options effectively and make appropriate
choices in their digital interactions.
 Digital Literacy: The ability to know and use when and how to
use digital technology. Do users take the time to learn about digital
technologies? Do they share this information with other people?
Despite significant progress in technology integration within
educational settings, there remains a substantial gap between school-
based technology education and real-world technological demands.
Schools must update their focus to address both the types of technologies
taught and their practical applications, particularly as new tools like
videoconferencing and collaborative online platforms become standard in
professional environments. Modern workers increasingly require
immediate access to information, necessitating advanced information
literacy and processing skills. The contemporary digital society demands
that learners develop the ability to acquire knowledge independently,
regardless of time or location. This is evidenced in sectors like business,
military, and medicine, where technology adaptation is rapid and crucial.
Digital Citizenship education must therefore evolve to emphasize high-
level information literacy skills, preparing individuals to quickly adapt to
and appropriately utilize emerging technologies in an ever-changing digital
landscape.
Digital Etiquette: The online behavior standards that digital
technology users are expected to apply. Do users think of other people
when using digital technologies?
Digital etiquette represents one of the most challenging aspects of
digital citizenship, as users frequently encounter inappropriate online
behavior without having received proper guidance on acceptable digital
conduct beforehand. Despite people's ability to recognize improper
behavior, there's often hesitation and discomfort in addressing these
issues directly with others. The common response to inappropriate
technology use has been to either implement strict rules and regulations
or completely ban the technology. However, this approach is insufficient;
rather than merely establishing restrictions, there needs to be a
comprehensive effort to educate and develop responsible digital citizens
who understand and practice appropriate online behavior, ensuring a
more respectful and productive digital society.
Digital Law: Legal rights and restrictions regulating the use of
technology. Are users aware of the laws (rules, policies) regulating the
use of digital technologies?
 Digital law encompasses the ethical framework governing
technology use in society, distinguishing between unethical practices that
constitute theft and crime, and ethical behavior that adheres to societal
laws. Users must recognize that digital crimes include damaging or
stealing others' online work, identity, or property. In an ethical digital
society, certain fundamental rules apply to all online activities, whether for
work or leisure. Specific examples of unethical digital behavior include
unauthorized access to information (hacking), illegal music downloads,
plagiarism, creating malicious software (worms, viruses, Trojan Horses),
sending spam, and identity theft. Understanding and respecting these
digital laws is crucial for maintaining a safe and ethical online environment
where everyone's rights and property are protected.
Digital Rights and Responsibilities: The privileges and
freedoms given to all digital technology users and the expectations
from them. Are users ready to protect other people's rights to protect their
digital rights?
Digital citizenship, like traditional citizenship governed by documents
like the American Constitution's Bill of Rights, encompasses fundamental
rights extended to all digital citizens, including privacy and freedom of
expression. These essential digital rights require thorough discussion,
understanding, and protection in our increasingly digital world. However,
these rights are intrinsically linked with corresponding responsibilities,
where users play a crucial role in establishing and maintaining appropriate
technology usage standards. The successful functioning of a digital
society depends on the careful balance between these rights and
responsibilities, ensuring that all members can participate productively in
the digital environment.
Digital Health and Wellness: Physical and psychological health
aspects related to the use of digital technology. Do users consider
both physical and psychological risks when using digital technology?
In the modern technological landscape, it is crucial to address
various safety and health concerns, including eye safety, repetitive stress
syndrome, and sound ergonomic practices. Additionally, psychological
issues such as Internet addiction are becoming increasingly prevalent. To
mitigate these risks, users must be educated about the inherent dangers
of technology. Digital Citizenship encompasses a culture where
individuals are taught how to protect themselves through comprehensive
education and training, ensuring they can navigate the digital world safely
and responsibly.
 Digital Security: Precautions to be taken to protect the personal
security of all technology users and the security of their networks.
Do users take the time to protect their information and take precautions to
protect other people's data?
Digital security parallels physical security in our society, as both
realms face threats from individuals who may cause harm or disruption.
Just as we implement protective measures in our homes with locks and
fire alarms, we must also take precautions in our digital lives. This
includes utilizing virus protection software, maintaining data backups, and
protecting equipment from power surges. Being a responsible digital
citizen requires proactive measures to safeguard our information from
potential threats, rather than solely relying on trust within the digital
community. These security measures are essential components of
participating safely in the digital world, much like how we protect our
physical assets in everyday life.
In conclusion, digital citizenship plays a vital role in preparing 21st-
century students for the increasingly digital world, encompassing essential
aspects of online safety, respectful digital communication, and responsible
management of personal information and media consumption. As our
society becomes more interconnected through social media and digital
platforms, the importance of being a good digital citizen has become
paramount. Students who understand and practice good digital citizenship
develop crucial skills that enable them to navigate the online landscape
safely while contributing to a positive digital community. This
understanding helps them protect their personal information, maintain
healthy online relationships, and make informed decisions about their
media consumption, ultimately fostering their overall digital well-being in
an era where technology is deeply integrated into daily life.

Reporter: Cabrera, Maria Celeste A.

So, How can educators teach digital citizenship in the classroom?

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. As the rate of technological advancement
continues to increase, the world as a whole is becoming even more
dependent on the internet for day-to-day activities. That makes digital
literacy and citizenship a crucial topic to teach today’s students. Good
digital citizenship for students engages them and shows them how to
connect with one another, empathize with each other, and create lasting
relationships through digital tools. Bad digital citizenship, on the other
hand, entails cyberbullying, irresponsible social media usage, and a
general lack of knowledge about how to safely use the internet.
Fortunately, almost all of the requirements to be a good digital citizen can
be taught in the classroom.
Teaching students to develop an awareness of data security, online
etiquette, and cyberbullying helps them make better decisions online.
Being a responsible digital citizen means that all individuals are able to
use technology ethically, responsibly, and effectively. It is important to
develop an understanding of the impact that one’s digital actions can have
on other individuals and on society as a whole. Students and teachers
must be able to keep themselves safe, know how to protect their privacy,
learn how to critically analyze information, and engage in respectful
interactions online. An article written by Applied Educational Systems
outlines 7 things to focus on when teaching good online habits in K-12
classroom to give you the most comprehensive guide.
Empathy
Empathy is an essential part of teaching digital literacy and digital
citizenship for students. This is because a successful digital literacy
curriculum requires students to think beneath the face-value text that
they’re reading online. Instead, they need empathy to truly understand the
information they’re absorbing. When you want to teach students how to
be good digital citizens, teaching empathy is a great starting point. This is
because empathy is crucial to understanding how people talk and behave
online. Because internet use relies largely on text-based communications,
it’s impossible to hear someone’s vocal tone, see their facial expressions,
or understand other non-verbal cues that you get when you’re speaking to
someone face-to-face. As a result, it’s incredibly easy for internet users to
make quick, harsh judgments about someone’s statements online.

How the internet works

 The internet is an incredible network of interconnected servers and
computers that direct web browser requests through a network of wired
and wireless connections. While that’s a vague explanation, the fact is
that the internet has gotten so large and complex that it’s a challenge to
be any more specific about it! So why is this important for students to
understand? When you show students that the internet works via a
sophisticated interconnection of digital tools, you set the stage to help
them understand the next key elements of being good digital citizens. This
lesson focuses on networking (digital machines all linked together by the
internet) and hardware (the actual machines themselves). It also includes
concepts such as communication, central processing units, hard drives,
computers, and more. With this lesson, you can show students the basics
of how the internet functions so that they can increase their digital literacy!
Understanding user data
User data is one of the most complex and concerning concepts in
the digital age. Just about every company with a website collects data on
the people who visit it. That data may be as simple as the pages that
someone views, and it could be as complex as someone’s home address.
Most of the websites on the internet use this information for marketing
purposes. It helps them understand their customers a little bit better, and it
helps companies connect with people in a meaningful way.
Practicing digital literacy
Digital literacy is the practice of reading information online and
understanding what it means, where it originated, and whether it’s
accurate. As a result, digital literacy is one of the hardest concepts to
teach to students. It’s also one of the most important qualities for students
to become good digital citizens! After all, how can they practice good
digital citizenship if they can’t discern accurate information from
misinformation online? A solid digital literacy curriculum includes learning
about ethics, protecting yourself online, and even preventing
cyberbullying.
Acknowledging the digital divide
The digital divide is the disparity between those who have access to
modern digital tools (like computers and the internet) and those who don’t.
This is important to recognize because the internet is still very much a
luxury in the world, even in the United States! Access to computers and
the internet is still restricted by finance in every part of the world, meaning
that those in poverty don’t have the same level of access as those who
have disposable income.
Practicing digital wellness
Digital wellness is the practice of refraining from indulging in the
internet and digital media for reasonable amounts of time. In other words,
it’s the practice of knowing when to “take a break” from screens. Digital
wellness is important because too much screen time can have adverse
effects on students. Adrian F. Ward of the University of Colorado
performed a full study on this topic and discovered that screen time can
impact transitive memory, empathy, and even grey matter development in
young minds. So, strangely enough, the best way to practice digital
wellness is to leave digital devices for a few hours every day!
Securing digital devices
The final element of becoming a good digital citizen is securing
digital devices. This is the perfect capstone to your digital citizenship
curriculum because it takes everything students have learned and applies
it to real-life scenarios. You’ve shown students how the importance of
empathy. You’ve shown them how the internet works. You’ve even shown
them why they need to use digital devices in moderation. Ensure your
students know how to lock and change their smartphone codes or
identification patterns. If they use facial recognition, ensure they don’t post
similar photos of their faces online. Antivirus software comes in many
forms and names, but it all does the same general task keeping your
possessions and information safe from those who would steal it. All of this
information acts like an extra padlock that you attach to a treasure chest.
The more locks your students have on their personal information, the
harder it is for anyone to steal it!
CONCLUSION
Not all digital citizenship is good, so it is important to emphasize the
difference between the good and bad, ensuring that students are held
accountable when they are engaging in harmful online activity. Technology
integration is not going to slow down anytime soon, so it is critical that
educators make digital citizenship a priority in the classroom early, to
avoid students developing habits of bad online habits for the future.
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