Being a digital learner in the 21st century is very exciting but there will be some concerns. With the ever-changing technology there are some fundamental practices that need to be taught and practiced by all users.
Security and safety is a big concern. As educators we need to make sure that students are taught and practice how to be secure with their personal information. They need to make sure that they keep their passwords to the computer to themselves, much like they do their lunch number. They also need to make sure not to give out any personal information on the web because they really don’t know who is on the other end unless an adult is present and verified the receiver.
Another important lesson for computer users is communicating in a proper way. What you say and how you say it is very important. We spend a lot of time in elementary teaching the children the importance of being respectful and kind to one another and that needs to be continued when on the computer, whether it is in a blog, chat, or a social networking site.
Another important lesson is computer literacy. Technology is great and learning various programs will help make projects more interesting. There are many programs that students will be able to work on cooperatively to enhance their learning.
Just as teachers are demonstrating their new knowledge for many of the digital tools, for our students to become digital citizens, we need to see students demonstrate personal responsibility for becoming a lifelong learner.
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