Tag Archives: #DigitalCitizenship

Why every kid should learn to code (in the Humanities as well as Computer Science)⤴

from @ andrewjmclaughlin


Like art, coding enables self-expression. Also, like art, it can be a catalyst for political and social change.
Finding solutions to global and societal problems involves the same set of computational thinking skills as finding solutions to programming problems. Learning to code is not just about learning to use a powerful, modern 'lingua franca' to develop clever apps, but about developing the ability to understand how to break problems down, to spot patterns, to collaborate, to ideate-try-fail-tinker-and try again, to make sense of the world around us.

Learning to code is about learning to change society (hopefully for the better) - it gives citizens agency (see Jennifer Pahlka's TED Talk and read more about her work in '[Re]:Coding <America/>') and the tools to leverage impactful change despite the traditional political machinery being broken (as Jon Alexander champions in his book, 'Citizens').

Jennifer Pahlka's TED Talk

It is important then for children to learn about programming and develop computational thinking at an early age - to build their skills, their confidence and their awareness, and to find new ways to express themselves and shape their world. Goodness knows, they will inherit a world in crisis, it is only right that we give them every opportunity to develop their solutions and build the new tools they'll need.

Linda Liukas succinctly addressed this with HundrEDorg (4 years ago).

This is just one of the reasons that I am grateful for organisations like CodeBase, ​Micro:bit Educational Foundation, Barefoot Computing​ and Digital Xtra Fund, and their efforts to bring coding to our young people in spite of a national shortage of Computer Science teachers.


Digital Citizenship Education: What it is and Why it Matters (by ChatGPT)⤴

from @ andrewjmclaughlin

Below is a blog post written by ChatGPT on Digital Citizenshi

p on 10/03/2023. 
Digital Citizenship Education: What it is and Why it Matters

In today’s digital age, children and young people are growing up in a world that is more connected and online than ever before. They have access to an enormous amount of information, tools, and platforms that can help them learn, create, and communicate with others. However, this also means that they are exposed to a range of digital risks and challenges that can have serious consequences for their well-being, privacy, and reputation.

This is where digital citizenship education comes in. Digital citizenship education is a term used to describe the process of teaching and learning about the responsible use of technology, the Internet, and social media. It aims to equip children and young people with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes they need to navigate the digital world safely, responsibly, and ethically.

Why is digital citizenship education important?

There are several reasons why digital citizenship education is crucial in today’s society:

  1. To ensure digital safety and well-being: Digital citizenship education helps children and young people understand the risks associated with using technology and social media, such as cyberbullying, online harassment, and exposure to inappropriate content. It also teaches them how to protect their personal information, manage their digital footprint, and stay safe online.

  2. To promote responsible use of technology: Digital citizenship education encourages children and young people to use technology and social media in a responsible and ethical manner. It teaches them about digital etiquette, cyber ethics, and the importance of respecting the rights and feelings of others online.

  3. To support digital literacy and creativity: Digital citizenship education fosters digital literacy skills, such as critical thinking, media literacy, and digital communication. It also encourages children and young people to use technology and social media to create, share, and collaborate with others in a positive and constructive way.

  4. To prepare for the future: In an increasingly digital world, digital citizenship education is essential for preparing children and young people for their future careers and personal lives. It helps them develop the skills and competencies they need to succeed in a technology-driven society.

How can digital citizenship education be taught?

Digital citizenship education can be taught in a variety of ways, such as through classroom instruction, online learning, and parent and community engagement. Some key strategies for effective digital citizenship education include:

  1. Integration with the curriculum: Digital citizenship education should be integrated into the curriculum across all subject areas and grade levels, rather than being taught as a standalone topic.

  2. Interactive and engaging activities: Digital citizenship education should be delivered through interactive and engaging activities that promote active learning and critical thinking.

  3. Collaboration with parents and community: Digital citizenship education should involve parents and community members in the learning process, as they play an important role in supporting safe and responsible technology use at home and in the community.

  4. Ongoing learning: Digital citizenship education should be an ongoing process, with opportunities for children and young people to learn and practice digital citizenship skills throughout their education.

Conclusion

Digital citizenship education is a critical component of education in the 21st century. It helps children and young people navigate the digital world safely, responsibly, and ethically, and prepares them for their future personal and professional lives. By integrating digital citizenship education into the curriculum, providing engaging and interactive learning activities, collaborating with parents and community members, and promoting ongoing learning, we can ensure that our children and young people are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes they need to be responsible digital citizens