Digital Abiding Citizen

Written by Dominique Houle on 08/11/11

Photo by tartanpodcast on Flickr

From cell phones to iPods, video games and computers, we are constantly engaged with digital media and online cultures. And because social media plays such a huge part in our lives (both youth and adults alike) misusing it can easily lead to many problems. For example, think of the numerous cases of exploitation and fraud (financial and others) online, cyberbullying, sexting that can occur online. Point being, as users, it is important to think about our online lives, rights and responsibilities as digital citizens so that everyone stays safe and respected when using the media.

Top news…

From the 7th to the 11th of November, it’s Media Literacy Week. This year’s theme is “Digital Citizenship” which aims to encourage people to be thoughtful, responsible and active citizens, respect others online, manage their privacy, understand copyright laws, and use digital tools effectively and positively. In other words, not only is it about knowing how to use social media, but also about knowing how to use it in a positive and proactive way. And the best way to ensure this is to ask yourself questions when you are using the media, like: How would I like others to treat me through the media? Speaking of of asking questions, I bet you’re wondering what you could do for Media Literacy Day, uh? Well the website offers tons of ideas for activities for this occasion, that you can do with your friends, in your school and community. Check it out!

It may be true that social media influence us, and particularly when we are young, but influence works both ways — you do have the power to choose to think and act positively when using the media and perhaps by doing so, influence others to be just as respectful.

Links

DEAL.org : The Consequences of Violence in the Media : True or False?
DEAL.org : The News says What?
Media Literacy Week

One Reader Comment:

1. 

   Dominique HouleNovember 24th

   Tout le monde peut faire une différence et c’est ce que des élèves et enseignant(e)s de 3e année de l’école élémentaire Trillium (Orléans, Ontario) font en lançant des vidéos positifs sur la citoyenneté numérique à l’occasion de la Semaine éducation média!! http://www.media-awareness.ca/francais/ressources/galerie_de_presse/communiques/2011/11072011.cfm

   Everyone can make a difference. And 3rd grade students and teachers from Trillium Public School (Orleans, Ontario)are doing so by launching positive videos highlighting digital citizenship during Media Literacy Week!! http://www.media-awareness.ca/francais/ressources/galerie_de_presse/communiques/2011/11072011.cfm