In today’s world, it is crucial that we set our students up for success not only in the world around us but in the digital world as well.
Kids and adults in present time have to think much more purposefully about digital footprints than we ever had to in the past. As I tell students, this is not something to be scared of. Instead, we can think of it as an important responsibility and a big choice we have each day. We are in control; We can choose to leave a positive, negative, or neutral digital footprint each time we are online, so let us choose positivity!
With that said, here is a culmination of websites that contain resources, videos, and lesson plans that I have found useful. Since digital citizenship contains a large variety of subjects (For example: Digital identity, digital safety, digital communication, etc.), be sure to be knowledgeable in these areas, while determining the appropriate times to discuss and integrate these topics within your curriculum and school day.
A few of these sites differentiate items into leveled bands that they deem to be “grade-level appropriate.” As we always do, ensure to read through items, websites, and videos listed below before teaching to confirm they are indeed grade-level appropriate while differentiating as needed.
1.ISTE Standards for Students (2016)
The new and updated standards are clear, in depth, and just what a school needs to help develop age-appropriate tech skills for a variety of grade levels. On the above link, there is a place to purchase the 2016 ISTE Standards for Students ebook as well.
A scope and sequence for K-12 Digital Curriculum with lessons to use in your class. The grade level bands are divided between K-2, 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12. Therefore, I have used some of the lessons as a resource, but not a linear guide to follow step-by-step, since many supplemental skills will need to be added, based on what your kids need.
3. KidsSmart
A kids-based website divided into digital topics that are filled with conversational starters and videos to preview and use. Check-it-out!
4. Digital Citizenship Program – The Lester B Pearson School Board
My dear friend, @danaariss shared this Canadian based site with me. Thank you, Dana! Once you click the link, scroll down the site to see a multitude lessons and curriculum resources.
5. Media Smarts – Canada’s Centre for Digital and Media Literacy
Dana also recommended this marvelous link. Tip: This is a site you will want to spend time navigating through. I am especially a fan of the relevant parent resources with topics that are trending today.
6. Digital Citizenship Survival Kit via @mrbadura
This idea from Craig was brilliant, I just taught a digital citizenship lesson today and embedded this idea within it and called mine the “Digital Toolkit.” I also added in a highlighter for future references to remind students to highlight the positive that they see others, and themselves do online. Thank you, Craig for this superb concept.
7. Digital Footprint – 5 Things
Although we need to help prepare students for potential dangers online, it is also crucial that we broadcast how positive digital footprints can change the world for the better, and it all starts with us. I ask students to think to themselves, “Does what I do online represent who I really am and who I want to be?” Remind them that today is a chance to start fresh.
Ask students to write and illustrate their footprint template with five positive words that they want others to think and feel when people see them online today and in the future. After completing, we began a “museum walk” to view the finished results around the room. I loved viewing words that students wrote like “positive, adventurous, kind, compassionate, smart, helpful, good friend, etc.” Reading these thoughts confirmed my belief that students want to be empowered to make a meaningful impact. Let us help them realize that they are not just digital leaders tomorrow- They are digital leaders TODAY!
Do you have any resources, links, videos, or lessons that you use to teach digital citizenship? If so, please share below!
