UISG: Primary March 2017, Edition 15 | Page 36

"...we should try our best to make our children understand that they have more resources available at their fingertips than any other generation, and, with these resources, comes great responsibility."

Being a good digital citizen incorporates numerous practices and skills, but to begin with, we will focus on only one. First, and maybe most important, our students should understand how their digital footprint works.

Where do we begin?

In 2017, we all have a digital identity, and we can pretty much see and connect with anyone, even people we do not know. Online posts and photos, unless we are 100 % aware of privacy options, are permanent, and anyone can see. It’s important that we all remind our children to protect their privacy and protect their identity. It’s seems simple, yet many students do not understand the impact of their digital footprint.

A digital footprint

Inappropriate or garish posts could come back to haunt a person years later, when looking for a job or applying to universities. Around Year 5 and 6, if not sooner, students delve into social media. It’s important they are aware of privacy settings. We can all work together to raise awareness.

image found at https://www.thinglink.com/scene/695260463297986561#

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