The definition of digital rights and responsibilities is having the right and freedom to use all types of digital technology while using the technology in an acceptable and appropriate manner. As a user of digital technology, you also have the right to privacy and the freedom of personal expression.
Although we have the right to privacy and freedom in the digital world, we do have a responsibility to use it wisely and respect the works of others. With everything there are rules; so as educators we need to instill the values of responsibility, respect, and integrity, in our students when acquiring material or communicating in the digital sense. Students should be required to follow the Acceptable Use Policy in their school district that details how to be digitally respectful in and out of the classroom setting.
There have been so many cases recently in the media of cyber bullying through texting, sexting, Facebook, and other social media, and it needs to stop. Unfortunately, there have been terrible outcomes and consequences due to this type of harassing communication. In some cases, the bullying was so bad, that students have taken their lives just to put an end to the harassment. Students should not only understand that they not acting responsible and respectful, but unlawful. They need to be aware that this type of behavior is unacceptable and they will be reprimanded and prosecuted if caught.
Although the use of cell phones have increased in our society, so have the issues that accompany them. Texting to cheat on tests or assignments is an uprising issue in schools. Students expectations and consequences should be made absolutely clear in the school or classroom AUP (Acceptable Use Policy) concerning cell phone use.
It is equally important to teach our students how cite the works of others appropriately. They need to understand that although it is acceptable to use someone’s work as a resource, they also need to realize that giving proper credit to that person is acting as a responsible citizen. Plagiarism has been an ongoing issue in schools and colleges. This type of behavior is inappropriate and infringe on the rights of others. We need to make clear to our students the expectations of using someone else’s work.
* Below is a list digital rights and responsibilities in the digital sense:
Digital Rights:
- Right to freedom of expression
- Right to privacy
- Right to credit for personal works
- Right to digital access
- Right to our identity
Digital Responsibilities:
- Responsibility to report bullying, harassing, sexting, or identity theft
- Responsibility to cite works used for resources and researching
- Responsibility to download music, videos, and other material legally
- Responsibility to model and teach student expectations of technology use
- Responsibility to keep data/information safe from hackers
- Responsibility not to falsify our identity in any way
Digital Citizenship 