Module 1: The connected world
The information in the Connected world module is interesting and informative. The children we teach have been brought up in the digital world and are confident in using most applications. Our role as teachers is to provide a positive and safe learning environment. Many of our students are far more computer literate than we are however they do need guidance, support and direction on how to use the internet and social media safely and appropriately.
Module 2: Cyber safety and Your Students
It is important for teachers to understand and guide their students understanding of cybersafety and cyberbullying. Teachers need to explain what cybersafety and cyberbullying is to the students. They may think that what they are saying online is joking when in fact it is bullying. Parents and teachers need to be aware of the signs or any changes in behaviour that indicate a student is being cyberbullied.
It is important that the students are able to trust and confide in their teacher or a familiar adult, so that they have someone to discuss any issues that may arise during the time online. Teachers should encourage students to remain connected with their families and friends to receive support
The module was interesting and useful for identifying risks and strategies that can be used to counteract cyberbullying and encouraging safe online activities with students.
Module 3: Schools and the Law
Teachers have a duty of care to educate not only students but also their parents about online safety. Most incidents will occur outside of school hours and teachers need to enlist the assistance of parents to keep students safe. This module had some great strategies for implementing a whole school approach. The electronic bullybox was an idea that the students could take on board as it could be anonymous. The cyber safety week was another great idea that would education students in strategies to use and who to go to if problems arise.
This module has made me realise that I did not know my school’s policy, guidelines or rules relating internet usage and that the policy would probably need updating.
Module 4: Putting it into Practice
This module contained useful information including age appropriate lesson plans for a variety of age groups. I certainly will be revisiting the website and accessing the resources to use in my teaching. As I teach early childhood students, it is sometimes difficult to access age appropriate resources to educate this young age. These resources were certainly helpful as were the suggested strategies to combat a variety of problems the can occur whilst participating in social media and online activities.
roslynefrancis 