October 18-22 is Digital Citizenship Week. Some might argue that we need to focus on Digital Citizenship all the time, but during this week, we pause and strategically discuss these skills. So what do you have planned for your students this upcoming week? Are you looking for some ideas? Well, if that's the case, you have come to the right place.
Where should I get started?
When it comes to all things digital citizenship, I always begin with Common Sense Media. Why study digital citizenship? Check out their video on the right. This year's focus for digital citizenship week is helping students to reflect on their social emotional well being using 3 steps: engaging in daily activities, promoting digital citizenship in our communities and building a digital citizenship roadmap.
What kinds of daily activities can students engage in?
On Common Sense Media, these activities are sorted by age: Elementary, Middle School and High School. Each day has a different theme which include a quick SEL lesson, gives suggestions for reflection and creation, and even ways to engage families.
Monday is all about Self Awareness and how students feel when they use technology.
Tuesday is about self management and how students balance their time with and without technology.
Wednesday focuses on responsible decision making online.
Thursday helps students reflect on ways that that can be kind online and improve relationship skills.
Friday ends the week with a focus on social awareness and how to respond to online meanness.
How can you promote digital citizenship in our communities?
Linked to the right is the Common Sense Media Awareness Kit. There are so many amazing ideas shared that are ready to go with very little customization. I love how easy Common Sense Media makes these resources for us to use. Grab and go resources are the way to go!
How can you build a roadmap for digital citizenship?
Common Sense Media has so many amazing professional development opportunities to help you build this road map. They even have educator, school and district Common Sense Recognitions.
But Common Sense Media isn't the only place to get resources
The DigCit doctors, Kristen Mattson and LeaAnne Lindsay, have also compiled some amazing ideas for creating a DigCit Family night, In this 5 page FREEBIE, they share some great ideas for getting families involved. I love how their ideas get the entire family learning together!
Another great place to learn include Google's Be Internet Awesome program that even has matching Pear Deck slides. Don't forget to check out Google's game, Interland, for even more fun while learning.