In my work with middle school students all over the country, we continuously build tools and methods for being tech healthy together. Adding student voice to my work on youth, families, communities, and tech is critical. Asking students directly about their experiences, insights, and knowledge about life online has been the deepest part of my work. Often they are very forthcoming and reasonable about what they think is safe, appropriate, and fair. And sitting in my curiosity, they have been incredible teachers.
Together, we agree that we are all responsible for how we show up on the Internet. So, over time, we’ve built some tried and true practices together. Here are the top five.
- The Billboard — The Internet is a public space — even if our accounts are set to private, the content disappears or we think a chat is just between friends. Images, conversations, and behavior can be screenshots, shared and spread. How can we remember that we are accountable and responsible for what we say and do online? We can think of The Billboard! Try to imagine many eyes in a public space seeing what you’re saying, sending, and sharing. This helps us remember to…
