They are constantly connected to the internet and rely heavily on technology for their daily interactions.
It is essential, therefore, to educate our children about their digital responsibilities, ensuring their safety and also instilling in them the ability to contribute positively to society. In the latest episode of Kids Gone Global, I had the pleasure of speaking with Laura Jakubowski, the Technology Integration Coach at the International School of Hamburg, to delve into the significance of digital citizenship and the school's approach to teaching it.
Laura's journey into the realm of digital education began when she was a teacher in New York, incorporating technology into her classroom. She quickly became fascinated by the curiosity and diverse talents that children possessed in terms of technology. However, she also noticed the challenges they faced in using technology effectively and responsibly. This sparked her interest and motivated her to develop a digital citizenship curriculum at the Hamburg's international school specifically tailored to younger students.
According to Laura, digital citizenship is a combination of digital literacy and societal participation. It involves using technology optimally and being an active member of a community. Children embark on their journey as digital citizens from a young age, and this journey necessitates careful guidance and education.
Laura emphasized that one of the key issues she strives to tackle is creating a safe and empowering digital environment for students. Drawing upon resources such as the Harvard Project Zero and Common Sense Media, Laura and her team have crafted a curriculum that not only enhances students' knowledge and confidence in technology but also equips them with the skills to navigate the risks associated with the digital world.
The curriculum follows a systematic approach that begins early and focuses on preventive measures. It starts with digital citizenship for 5-6-year-olds, intending to build a foundation of skills that will support them as they progress to secondary school. The curriculum encompasses ten interconnected concepts, ranging from responsible use and media balance to digital identity, data protection, research skills, and managing one's online presence.
A significant concern in today's digital era is the amount of time spent on screens. Laura pointed out that screen time management is a challenge not just for children but for everyone. It is crucial for young students to understand the concept of dual-screen time and the impact it can have on their well-being.
Laura suggested that self-awareness should be the starting point for managing screen time. How does one feel after a certain period of screen use? The curriculum involves establishing routines and habits around technology use, similar to how one does for personal hygiene or eating.
Digital safety and addressing the issue of cyberbullying are fundamental aspects of this education. The curriculum focuses on teaching students to use technology responsibly and kindly. Laura emphasized the importance of resilience and providing students with the necessary resources to handle cyberbullying. It is disconcerting that children can be bullied in the confines of their own homes through technology, and it is crucial to equip them with the tools to navigate such situations.
Ultimately, Laura emphasized that technology should serve as a conduit for meaningful connections between people, regardless of geographical constraints. As our interview came to a close, it became evident that while the landscape of technology and digital citizenship is constantly evolving, the goal remains steadfast – to prepare children for a future where they can utilize technology positively and effectively.
Tune in to Kids Gone Global for more conversations with experts in modern education.
Until then, here’s to us all raising global citizens – both offline and on!