Source: Globe, Clker, http://bit.ly/1CVSonk; Umbrella, Pixabay, http://bit.ly/1I2iTW4; Running Blue Man, Clker, http://bit.ly/1HinUvf; Thinking Blue Man, Clker, http://bit.ly/1rFELV2; Yoga, Clker, http://bit.ly/1rFERw1; Joystick, Clker, http://bit.ly/1tFWVYi
Hi, everyone, and welcome to today's lesson. I hope you're doing well. The topic we'll be discussing today is Digital Health. Let's get started.
But first, let's review what Digital Citizenship is. Digital Citizenship is the acceptable, appropriate, and responsible use and behavior of digital technology. It encompasses nine key elements. The elements are Digital Access, Digital Commerce, Digital Literacy, Digital Etiquette, Digital Law, Rights, and Responsibilities, Digital Health, and finally, Digital Security.
Growing up in the 1980s, this was my biggest culprit when it came to Digital Health. That's right, an old school joystick. My palm was calloused and my left thumb ached from the repetitive motion of clicking the red button during epic games of Centipede. Today's Digital Health concerns are a little bit more serious than that. Although small, there is always a chance of developing physical or psychological harm while using technology. Digital Health means maintaining good health practices while using digital devices and online resources.
One of our most important responsibilities as adult Digital Citizens is to encourage our youngsters to employ safe and healthy practices. We should warn them that there are some inherent physical dangers from continual use. For example, eye safety, repetitive stress syndrome, and ergonomic practices. Furthermore, there are psychological dangers as well. For example, addictions, anxiety, and even social withdrawal.
Current research indicates that these dangers are real. For example, a study in Finland showed that 85% of students identify themselves as mild, moderate, or serious overusers of the internet. 6% of all teenagers consider themselves addicted to the internet. And teenagers who are addicted to the internet rate themselves as being less than healthy, unhappy, and depressed. All this can lead to behavior problems both in and out of school.
Keeping the whole child in mind, there are measures that we can take to reduce these risks. For example, we can help students be aware of the amount of time that they spend online. We can monitor students for any physical problems related to technology use. We can teach sound ergonomic practices when students are using technology. We can encourage youngsters to take breaks and exercise their bodies.
Let's summarize what we covered in today's lesson. We began by reviewing the nine elements of Digital Citizenship. We focused on Digital Health and defined the term. We spoke about the inherent dangers that come from use and overuse of technology. We looked at some of the research. And we discussed how we can teach better digital health to our students. I'll leave you with this food for thought. Encourage your students to keep a weekly log of when and how they are using the internet. This is something you might want to do for yourself as well.
To dive a little deeper and learn how to apply this information, be sure to check out the additional resources section associated with this video. This is where you'll find links targeted towards helping you discover more ways to apply this course material. Thanks again for watching. Have a great day.
(00:00-00:10) Intro
(00:11-00:41) Digital Citizenship Overview
(00:42-01:00) Story
(01:01-01:17) Definition of Digital Literacy
(01:18-01:48) Internet Dangers
(01:49-02:18) Research
(02:19-02:47) Teaching Digital Health
(02:48-03:16) Summary
(03:17-03:46) Food For Thought
Digital Health for Teens
Helpful article from Roots of Action written by a developmental psychologist suggesting multiple ways to improve the digital health of families. https://www.rootsofaction.com/...
Teaching Parents Digital Citizenship
Article from THE Journal - Teaching Parents Digital Citizenship - article examines how the Katy Independent School District in Texas instructed parents about digital citizenship and how to foster those skills in their children. This article offers useful insights for educators interested in providing parents instruction on digital citizenship while showcasing the work of the students through a technology showcase.
http://thejournal.com/articles/2010/05/11/teaching-parents-digital-citizenship-at-katy-isd.aspx