As I look around at my friends, I see so many people using apps to connect, have conversations, and share parts of their lives with other people. Whether they are sharing what’s real or a version of themselves that is filtered, people my age constantly post online without understanding the big picture.
In school, we’re learning about Digital Citizenship, so I want to share with you what Digital Citizenship is and five ways you can be more responsible online… with or without that filter.
What is Digital Citizenship?
Digital Citizenship is the act of being responsible online.
According to Karen Mossberger, one of the authors of Digital Citizenship: The Internet, Society, and Participation, digital citizens are “those who use the internet regularly and effectively.”
This definition is great, but what does it mean when using the Internet? Let’s look at five ways to be more responsible with your online activity.
1. Understanding How the Internet Works
Before I was allowed to start using the Internet and apps, my parents wanted me to acknowledge that there could be repercussions to using the Internet. To make sure I was prepared, I researched and looked into what the consequences could be while online.
To help you be a better digital citizen, I recommend that before you download any social app or visit a website, you should understand how it works and the consequences of your activities.
2. Treat Others Online the Same Way You’d Treat them In-Person
Instead of feeling like you are anonymous, have power and like you can write anything you want online without consequence, talk to people like you would in person. Remind yourself that there’s a real person on the other side of the screen.
3. Using the Internet for Positivity
The Internet is a huge place (and I mean a REALLY huge place), and it’s easy to want to jump into negative conversations and try to be the loudest negative voice. Instead of adding more negativity to the Internet, I recommend that you try to be positive, be the bigger person, or don’t even engage in those arguments.
4. Managing Your Privacy and Being Safe Online
Be smart about your Internet usage. Don’t tell people where you live, don’t give out private information, and don’t abuse the power of the Internet to make friends with strangers. On the Internet, anyone can be anyone, so unless you know them in person, staying safe is a good idea.
5. Check Sources and Challenge Misinformation
People sharing information without checking the source and making sure it’s true can lead to conflicts and arguments online. If misinformation spreads, rumours can get out of hand, and myths can get passed on from generation to generation. To help stop misinformation from spreading, when you read something that seems too good to be true or a bit strange, research to check if what you’re reading is real before sharing it online.
To wrap up, I hope these five tips are helpful as you embark on your journey to becoming a positive digital citizen.
