This month, student across the District, are learning about Digital Citizenship and what it means to use technology responsibly. As part of Frenship’s Strategic Plan, a Digital Citizenship curriculum was set in place, and this year it is more important than ever before.
Through the Common Sense Education structure, Frenship is educating students and parents on finding a balance in their digital lives.
Laurie Bruns is the Instructional Technology Coordinator for the District. She explained that for many years, Frenship has taught students about good citizenship, but a few years ago, the Digital Citizenship curriculum was amplified due to students becoming more and more exposed to digital technology than ever before.
“Digital citizenship includes learning to navigate and stay safe on the internet, as well as how to present themselves online,” Bruns said. “It is about teaching our students to collaborate and create a culture of responsibility, and it is a way to prepare our students for the digital culture that lies ahead of them.”
Bruns said the Digital Citizenship program not only teaches students to be more responsible with digital technology, but also prepares them for their futures.
“This program assists our students in acquiring future-ready skills as well as better equip our teachers and parents for digital interactions,” Bruns said.
Some of the topics that the Digital Citizenship program addresses are cyberbullying and digital drama, internet safety, digital media, self-image and identity, creative credit and copyrights, information literacy, relationships and communication, privacy and security, and digital footprint and reputation.
Bruns said that Frenship has recognized the impact and growth of technology over the last few years and adjusts their curriculum to best fit those trends.
“When we look at the future, we know that smart devices and technology will be a part of it,” Bruns said. “Our kids need help learning how to find information, evaluate it for truth and share it responsibly. They need to know how to share information while still showing respect. Most of all, they need to know that they can positively impact the world around them through the digital sphere.”
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