Digital Etiquette

Video Transcription

Hi, and welcome to today's lesson, which is on a really important topic called digital etiquette. My name is Gino Sangiuliano, and I'll be guiding you through this tutorial.

Before we begin, let's review the nine elements of digital citizenship. Digital citizenship is the acceptable, appropriate, and responsible use of technology. The elements include digital access; digital commerce; digital literacy; today's topic of digital etiquette; digital law; digital rights; responsibilities; digital health; and finally, digital security.

As a teacher and a parent, sometimes those teachable moments are simply thrust upon you when you least expect them. Such was the case when my son, who was eight or nine at the time, sent a silly picture of himself to a friend. His friend responded with a not-so-kind caption, and so the discussion of digital etiquette began.

Let's define the term "digital etiquette." It's the basic and understood rules that everyone should follow in order to engage in appropriate digital interactions with others.

"Etiquette" is not a new term. However, when you add the digital component, differences arise. For example, teasing was once something that mostly happened verbally and face-to-face. Now it can take the form of messages and posts.

Bullying was also very direct and tangible. In the digital world of today, it can be anonymous, and happen 24/7. Fortunately many states have acted legislatively to address this serious issue.

Objects were once the target of theft. Today it's intellectual property that's at risk.

And finally, misrepresented information could be contained. Today, information can go viral in seconds, and is widespread and perpetual.

Here is a list of some common transgressions that are prevalent today. Unfortunately, due to the veil of anonymity, many individuals engage in these behaviors. Others do so simply because they haven't been taught not to. For example-- sending hurtful messages, hacking, illegal downloads, offensive language, plagiarism, and unethical practices.

A new term has entered our lexicon, and that is "netiquette." And teachers and adults have a responsibility to be role models, and actively teach appropriate online behavior to students of all ages.

First of all, it's never too early to start discussing this topic with youngsters. I have seen tips like this posted in many classrooms-- "Never send a message out of anger." "Anything posted or sent can never really be deleted." "Reread messages and posts before sending them."

You'll want to provide real life examples of how internet mistakes have destroyed reputations. If you're looking for some examples, just try Googling the phrase, "They loved your GPA. Then they read your tweets."

To summarize, we reviewed the nine elements of digital citizenship. We defined digital etiquette. We compared digital versus interpersonal etiquette. We discussed some common transgressions that occur. We talked about teachers as role models, and finally, how teachers should be teaching digital etiquette.

I'll leave you with this food for thought. Try looking carefully at the things you come across online. What digital etiquette breach do you encounter most often?

Now it's your turn to apply what you've learned in this video. The Additional Resources section will be super helpful. This section is designed to help you discover useful ways to apply what you've learned. Each link includes a brief description, so you can easily target the resources you want.

Thanks again for watching. Have a great day.