Nine Elements of Digital Citizenship

This week in EDC3100 I chose, along with Teresa Morgan and Jennifer Walsh, to explore the concept of Digital Citizenship.

Digital citizenship is a concept that is applicable to society as a whole.

The nine elements of digital citizenship as seen below are guidelines intended to promote the responsible and appropriate use of technology.

Digital Access: The principle that all people should have equal access to digital technology in order to become more productive citizens

Digital Commerce: The recognition of the internet as an efficient way to exchange goods and services both legal and illegal, and the raising of awareness of what is and is not considered an acceptable exchange in the digital economy  

Digital Communication: The ability to effectively individualise and manage the profusion of digital communications available so that it has the minimum impact on the priorities of everyday life

Digital Literacy: As technology plays an increasing role in the workplace it is crucial that society builds up digital literacy. As new technologies emerge it is important they are learned and used effectively

Digital Etiquette: Refers to the principles of an electronic code of conduct and the education of one another in regards to appropriate online communications 

Digital Law: Surrounds an awareness of the legal ramifications of unethical online behaviour e.g. illegally downloading music, creating viruses and hacking information that belongs to others

Digital Rights and Responsibilities: Digital citizens have certain rights e.g. the right to free speech however they must be aware that rights come with responsibility

Digital Health and Wellness: Technology comes with certain inherent health risks. Digital citizens need to be educated how to use technology both safely and productively  

Digital Security: Surrounds the installation of firewalls and anti-virus software on digital hardware in order to safeguard against the ill intentions of others

I found the topic of Digital Citizenship to be well resourced online for varying age groups by way of interactive books and web sites.

During my research I came across this very user friendly and comprehensive website published by the NSW Education & Communities Department that provides essential information and an interactive pathway for students, teachers and parents about digital citizenship and being safe, positive and responsible online.

This primary school setting had a lot of fun learning how to be ‘cyber safe’ take a look for yourself here

References:

New South Wales Government (n.d.). Digital citizenship. Retrieved from http://www.digitalcitizenship.nsw.edu.au/

Ribble, M. (2013). Digital citizenship: using technology appropriately. Retrieved from http://digitalcitizenship.net/Nine_Elements.html