5th Grade Digital Citizenship with Sheldon Henry, Director of Informational and Instructional Technology
Sara Keller, Admissions and Communications Associate
In a world where technology is ever-present, FCS is very mindful about the amount of time students spend on technology, and how they interact with it. In the Lower School, iPads that contain educational apps are available for teachers to use to support students’ learning. Even though they are used infrequently, teachers emphasize that, in school, technology—and the apps they utilize—are tools, and that learning must be the outcome. In the Middle School, students are given Chromebooks that they are able to use in school and at home. While this exciting piece of technology comes with new opportunities, it also introduces responsibilities that extend far beyond simply taking care and maintaining the physical hardware. In an intentional approach to prepare and educate students about technology use and online safety, FCS’s Director of Informational and Instructional Technology, Sheldon Henry, has been leading Digital Citizenship classes with all 5th grade students. In these classes, Sheldon emphasizes three key principles when it comes to technology: be safe, be responsible, and make the internet a better place.
Helping students understand how to stay safe online is the top priority of the Digital Citizenship class. For many children, the internet can feel like a fun, harmless place to play games and be creative, but it’s important to be aware of the potential risks. By openly discussing some of the red flags and warning signs, Sheldon hopes to empower students to make informed, safe decisions, and reduce the chance of being put in a dangerous situation. Some of the safety topics they cover include: never talk with strangers, never share personal information, and protect your privacy.
Another key principle emphasized and discussed in this class is to be responsible and think before you post! In the era of social media, it can be easy to think of a post, picture, or comment as fleeting or temporary. Students were reminded that even though something may be deleted, it is never gone; even if something is deleted, it could already be saved or shared by someone else. Students reflected on how this can become an issue and deduced that you should never say or share something online you may regret later. Tying into previous conversations about academic integrity, Sheldon also stressed that even though it may feel like ‘just social media,’ plagiarism applies to all platforms. No matter if it is a picture or a post, students should always credit or ask for permission before sharing someone else’s words or work.
The last golden rule discussed in the Digital Citizenship class deeply reflects the mission of FCS and our shared Quaker values: be kind. Every single student has the opportunity to shape their digital footprint and choose how they treat others online. FCS 5th graders will leave this class informed about online safety and responsibility, and reminded that they are now members of a new community who can leave their mark by helping build a better, more positive online space.
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