Let’s face it, folks. Technology has completely infiltrated our lives. Our daily activities are influenced if not driven by technology. We can deposit checks, watch movies, and keep the world updated of our every move through social media all from the palm of our hands. While all these new abilities are fun and exciting, all too often people lose track of (or forget) that these abilities are actually privileges and there is a new set of behavioral norms that should be followed when using technology.
So what is digital citizenship? Simply put, it is the rules one should adhere to when using technology. Surprisingly enough, these rules are not too much different than many of the unwritten rules and norms of society in general. Mike Ribble (2013) has developed a list of Nine Elements that should guide one’s use of technology. These include:
- Digital Access – Who has access and how do we ensure access to everyone?
- Digital Commerce – The buying and selling of goods electronically.
- Digital Communication – E-mails, blogs, text messages.
- Digital Literacy – Understanding how to use technology appropriately and efficiently.
- Digital Etiquette – The code of conduct when using technology.
- Digital Law – Ethical and legal use of technology.
- Digital Rights & Responsibilities – Basic rights and freedoms that are necessary in a digital world.
- Digital Health & Wellness – Ensuring technology usage does not affect physical or mental health.
- Digital Security (self protection) – Protecting oneself from identity theft, data loss, malware, etc.
Ribble’s Nine Elements form a foundation for how individuals should use technology in our ever changing society. With a broader focus being placed on technology in schools as well as increasing instances of schools moving towards 1:1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) it is imperative that we teach our students appropriate, ethical, and responsible technology use.
For more information, check out Mike Ribble’s website, digitalcitizenship.net.