Introduction to Digital Citizenship

Summary

Irene Manning from the One in One B Foundation introduces the CBSC Skills Course on Digital Citizenship, launched in June 2022. Aimed at grades 6-8, the course covers digital etiquette, online safety, and the responsible use of digital media. It includes interactive lessons, case studies, and videos, with support materials like student and teacher handbooks. Teachers can earn professional development hours and become Digital Citizenship Champions. The course aligns with the National Education Platform 2020, promoting digital inclusivity and safety.

Takeaways

• 😀 The CBSC Skills Course 'Digital Citizenship' was introduced in response to the sudden shift to online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the need for online conduct guidelines for students.
• 🏫 The course aligns with the National Education Platform 2020, emphasizing digital inclusivity and the responsible use of technology in education.
• 📅 Launched in June 2022, the program is currently being implemented nationwide to educate students on proper digital behavior.
• 👩‍🏫 Teachers are encouraged to participate in the course, as it offers professional development hours and the opportunity to become a 'Digital Citizenship Champion' by completing webinars and a quiz.
• 🏆 In October, during Cyber Security Safety Month, an Olympiad is planned to engage both teachers and students, promoting active involvement in digital safety.
• 📚 The course is designed for grades six, seven, and eight, with each level comprising 12 hours of interactive and engaging instruction, including case studies and group discussions.
• 📘 Support materials such as student and teacher handbooks, along with classroom materials, are provided to facilitate teaching and learning, with QR codes for easy access to additional resources.
• 🌐 The course covers seven main topics: digital world basics, digital etiquette, digital footprints, digital well-being, cyber security, information literacy, and the digital future.
• 🔒 A significant focus is on cyber security and the importance of safeguarding personal information, as well as the dangers of cyber exploitation.
• 📈 The course aims to prepare students for their role in the digital world, teaching them about the impact of social media, the risks of fake news, and the skills needed for a digital future.
• 🔗 For broader implementation, the course materials are adaptable for a range of grade levels, from fourth grade to twelfth grade, and are not limited to ICT teachers but are relevant for all educators.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the 'Digital Citizenship' course?

The 'Digital Citizenship' course focuses on teaching students how to behave responsibly and safely online, covering topics such as digital etiquette, digital footprints, cyber security, and information literacy.

Why was the 'Digital Citizenship' course developed?

The course was developed in response to the increased online presence of students during the COVID-19 pandemic, where a lack of understanding of online conduct was observed, necessitating education on digital citizenship.

How does the 'Digital Citizenship' course align with national education goals?

The course aligns with the National Education Platform 2020, which emphasizes digital inclusivity and the use of technology and digital media for all.

Who launched the 'Digital Citizenship' course and when was it launched?

The 'Digital Citizenship' course was launched in June 2022 by Dr. Saha and RP Singh of the skills development program of the CBSC.

What are the benefits for teachers who participate in the 'Digital Citizenship' course?

Teachers can benefit from the course by enhancing their own digital citizenship skills, and the hours spent on the course count towards their professional development hours. They also receive a certificate as a 'Digital Citizenship Champion' upon completion.

What kind of materials are provided to support teachers in the classroom?

Teachers are provided with a student handbook, a teacher handbook, and classroom materials, all designed to guide them in teaching digital citizenship, regardless of their subject area.

What are the seven main topics covered in the 'Digital Citizenship' course?

The seven main topics are: Welcome to Your Digital World, Digital Etiquette, Digital Footprints, Digital Well-being, Cyber Security, Information Literacy, and The Digital Future.

How is the 'Digital Citizenship' course structured in terms of grade levels and instruction hours?

The course is designed for grades six, seven, and eight, with each grade level having 12 hours of instruction. The lessons are interactive and include case studies, group discussions, and videos.

What is the purpose of the student handbook provided in the course?

The student handbook is a colorful and engaging resource that includes space for note-taking, guiding characters, and QR codes for accessing materials reviewed in class, helping students to learn and engage with the course content.

How does the course address the issue of cyber bullying?

The course includes a section on digital etiquette where it discusses cyber bullying, providing students with knowledge on how to avoid it and how to help if they see someone being cyber bullied.

What are the next steps for teachers interested in incorporating the 'Digital Citizenship' course into their teaching?

Teachers can start by watching the teacher and principal orientation video, attending webinars for deeper insights, and using the provided materials to teach the course in their classrooms, regardless of their subject specialization.