Cyber Smart Kids
We frequently think that our students know more about technology than we do. Often that’s true when it comes to being able to use the latest gadgets; however, we often assume that they’re using the technology wisely and that’s unfortunately not always the case, Stile (2015). By teaching students the values of being safe online, can help them to grow into young confident adults. If they know how to be responsible online, they have the knowledge and skills to be able to stay away from danger, protect themselves and their identities.
The internet enables an amazing interchange of ideas and thoughts. Our responsibility as teachers, it to be aware of the issues that the cyber world brings, but that’s not enough, it’s our duty of care to keep our students safe and gently show them how to do the right thing, whether it is in the classroom, school yard or on the internet, Stile (2015). It is important that young children learn about the impacts of the online world, their digital footprint will follow them everywhere, and can potentially affect their future. Teaching students about cyber safety in the classroom is very important, as students grow throughout their schooling life, so does the technologies available to them, therefore we need to educate and address any issues that could potentially affect them.
There is also a greater amount of support for parents and adults to learn about how to be safe online. The ACMA’s Digital citizens guide is about positive engagement with the online world. ACMA's guide identifies three core principles that responsible digital citizens should practice, these are, to engage online positively – Interacting online with consideration and self-awareness, being resilient when others don’t meet these standard, know how to be safe and know your online world – Individuals can confidently use technologies that are important to them by developing the necessary new skills and knowledge, and choosing consciously – making thoughtful decisions about exchanges of personal information, electronic transactions, privacy settings and digital security helps individuals to control their online experiences, Cyber(smart:) (2013).
According to Bullying No way (2015), cyberbullying can be offensive and upsetting and you don’t have to put up with it. Make sure students are aware that there is help out there, making sure that they always tell an adult when they feel uncomfortable online.
This site provides students with safety tips, how to behave online, an anonymous help box and informative video that will help guide students on the right path when online. Students can also participate in a quiz to find out how cyber smart they are.
There is a section available for teachers where they can find lesson plans and teaching resources.
