Digital Citizenship
Samuel Ferreira
What is Digital Citizenship
Digital citizenship is the way you act and use the internet. It is defined as responsible behavior when using the internet. There are nine aspects of digital citizenship: access, commerce, communication, literacy, etiquette, law, rights and responsibilities, health and wellness, and security.
Digital Access
Digital access is the ability to electronically participate in society. Everybody should have the opportunity to use technology and use these devices when they need to. In 2014, 2,925,249,355 people in the world had access to the internet. This number is steadily increasing since in the 1980s only 1% of the population had access to the internet and now 40% of the population use the internet. It is important that everybody has the ability to use the internet since in the modern world it is a crucial part of daily life.
Digital Commerce
Digital commerce is an online form of buying and selling any type of product. Nowadays, a large share of market economy is being done electronically. However, not all products that you see online are exactly what they are said to be. Buyers should be wary while shopping online and learn how to be effective consumers in a new digital economy.
Digital Communication
Digital communication is the way people can communicate with others online. In the 19th century, communication was very limited. Social media has revolutionized the way people communicate with each other. Nowadays, people are able to communicate with each other even if they are living halfway around the world. However, it is important that everybody communicates with each other in a responsible manner.
Digital Literacy
In essence, digital literacy is the behaviors and skills used for any type of technology. Digital literacy refers to the very basics of a technological device. If you have digital literacy you have the knowledge to understand and utilize sources online.
Digital Etiquette
Digital etiquette is a basic set of rules or behaviors when using the internet to make the digital community a better place for yourself and others. Digital etiquette, or netiquette, is extremely important in order to make the internet a better place. An example of showing digital etiquette would be refraining from cyberbullying or making fun of anyone online. Digital etiquette is just as important as etiquette offline.
Digital Law
Digital laws are in place in order to make the internet as safe and user friendly for everyone of all different ages. There are certain laws passed in different states that have made cyberbullying illegal which in turn discourages others from doing it. There are laws in place that also prohibit plagiarism and hacking. If people are able to follow these rules on the internet it will make it a safer and more enjoyable place.
Digital Rights and Responsibilities
Digital rights and responsibilities is having the right and freedom to use all types of technology but in an appropriate manner. When given the privilege to use the internet it is vital that people do not misuse it and are able to make the most out of it while using it in an acceptable way.
Digital Health and Wellness
Digital health and wellness means that you should limit your use of technology and the internet. If you are constantly in front of your computer it damages your physical health (eyes hurting or experiencing a headache) as well as your mental health. It is essential to use computers wisely and maintain a balanced life by going outside and doing other activities that do not involve a computer or electronic device.
Digital Security
Digital security is the protection of your identity online. Digital security is extremely important online; it is crucial that online information such as passwords and banking details are secure. Even if your information is secure there is still a possibility of you being hacked and banking details can be stolen or social media accounts can be ruined from this event. Digital security is one of the top priorities for government officials, since the consequences of being hacked could be very costly.