Journal 4: Text Unto Others….As You Would Have them Text Unto You

Villano, M. (2008, September). Text Unto Others... As You Would Have Them Text Unto You. T.H.E. Journal, 1-6. Retrieved October 7, 2008, from http://www.thejournal.com/articles/23225_1

The focus of this article is on the importance of teaching student to be good “digital citizens.” Because technology now plays such an integral role in the lives of students, both inside and outside of the school’s walls, they should be made aware of the etiquette of Internet usage, or Netiquette. The author discusses the works of two different programs that are both working in school districts to implement programs to teach students, parents and teachers both the importance of digital citizenship as well as the pitfalls of irresponsible Internet usage. The first program, in Manhattan, KS, stresses nine steps for good digital citizenship: etiquette, communication, literacy, access, commerce, law, rights and responsibilities, health and wellness, and security. This program instructs participants how to be savvy technology-users all around, not focusing merely on netiquette. The second program is found in Gillette, WY and focuses more on netiquette and legal and safe use of the Internet. This program also comments on the accountability of parents when it comes to oversight of their child’s internet and computer usage. The school can teach students all the rules and proper usage, but it comes down to parental supervision at home.

Question 1: How can I have my students learn Netiquette?
One way for students to learn proper technological use is to send them to sites such as “Digital Citizen Project” where they can learn more about it. Further, it would be beneficial for the entire school community to hire a speaker or a program that would work on campus with teaching students, faculty and community members about the proper use of the Internet.

Question 2: Will teaching students about netiquette and the difference between legal and illegal internet usage prevent them from improper usage?
We can’t be entirely certain that education on the proper and improper usage of computers will stop a student, or any person for that matter, from misusing technology, but it can prevent occurrences when the student merely does not know better. Also, by teaching them these things, we are helping students keep themselves from predators and the law.