1.Digital Rights and Responsibilities: the privileges and freedoms extended to all digital technology users, and the behavioral expectations that come with them.
2.Digital Communication: the electronic exchange of information.
3.Digital Access: full electronic participation in society.
4.Digital Etiquette: the standards of conduct expected by other digital technology users.
| 5.Digital Security: the precautions that all technology users must take to guarantee their personal safety and the security of their network. | ||
8.Digital Health and Wellness: the elements of physical and psychological well-being related to digital technology use. 9.Digital Commerce: the buying and selling of goods online. |
This behavior needs to be applied to all levels of education, not just older students. This is the 21st century where every child, big or small, is exposed to technology. Therefore, we as the future educators, according to NAEYC, we need to be responsible for using technology: with the right intentions, knowing the limits, and using it effectively (technologyinearlychildhood). It is important to teach digital citizenship to students because for one, you cant just throw a child onto a computer and say "go!". You have to monitor what they do, say, and learn in order for them to actually use technology efficiently. We all know they are using some sort of technology based item at home, so why not incorporate in the classroom? The key though, is not just using it, it's using it to its full potential. That requires the students to be able to practice digital citizenship. And as educators, its our job to make sure they do this in school and at home. If we start them practicing this at a young age then they can carry this etiquette throughout their lives.
On the flip-side, some believe that technology in the classroom is not good for young children. An article discussing whether technology and media should be used in the classroom says, children should be limited to "screen time" because it can lead to obesity and development/health issues(NAEYC). Other issues have also been identified such as: irregular sleep patterns, behavioral and attention problems, decreased academic performance, problems with socialization and language development, and increased time in front of screens(NAEYC).
There are many resources that are available to teachers to use inside their classrooms. Not only are their computers, but now there's i-pads and tablets in the classroom. All activities and technology-based lessons should be developmentally appropriate(NAEYC). Digitally literate educators have the skills, knowledge, and practice that is required to use technology efficiently in the classroom (NAEYC). Many websites have all kinds of educational tools available. Apple has also created many apps for the I-Pads that can be used as educational tools. There are resources out there, educators just need to be aware of what is appropriate to use and what is not.
Other technology tools and interactive media are(NAEYC):
- Web 2.0 tools for writing, collaboration, and playful experimentation.
- Include a range of assistive technology devices to expand access for children with special needs.
- Include language-translation software and keyboard adaptations for dual language learners.
- Provide geometry software that allows children to explore the concept of shape by stretching, bending, shrinking, or combining images.
- Use interactive digital games as a way to explore math, reading, social studies, and science concepts
- Provide digital microscopes and other digital tools for investigation.
- Encourage children to become proficient in using digital tools such as cameras, scanners, recorders, and editing software.
- Use technology tools to connect with other children in their communities or globally using e-mail, blogs, or video conferencing.
- Record children’s stories about their art projects, activities, and interactions;make digital audio or video files to document their progress.
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