Digital Citizenship-ISTE 3 (EDUC 639)

According to the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Standards for Educators describes digital citizenship as one of the standards to incorporate into curriculums. This standard focuses on educators inspiring students to contribute responsibly to and participate in the digital world. The goal is to create experiences for learners to understand how to interact socially responsibly and empathetically build community with other digital users. Additionally, educators should strive to establish a learning culture that embraces digital literacy and walks students through how to critically analyze online content by allowing them opportunities to practice using digital tools safely, legally, and ethically. Finally, the standard calls for educators to model their behavior, hoping students will grasp and apply it during technology usage (ISTE.org).

This is an enormous task for educators, but learners must become competent and savvy digital citizens to prepare to be productive life-long learners and citizens. It is no longer optional. Educators will need to secure help from parents and other stakeholders to ensure learners understand the importance of being good digital citizens. Also, by assisting students in this journey, the adult stakeholders will also learn the value of being a good digital citizen.

To ensure success in any field, it will be vital that learners competently navigate the digital landscape. Digital citizenship in the 21st century is necessary for everyone, whether you are a younger learner, an adult learner, or a workforce learner. 
 
Reference
International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE). (2021).  Educators Standard 3. www.iste.org