How to be a digital citizen

     

    We live in an age where the internet is a part of our daily life and we use the internet for many things: to search and learn remotely, to communicate with family and friends, to shop which has made us a part of digital citizenship. While the internet has certainly made life more efficient, it will be difficult to keep pace with digital transformation, so what are we going to do as digital citizens in the age we live in, and what are our responsibilities? 

    A digital citizen is a citizen who will be critical when using information and communication resources, knows the ethical consequences of his or her online behavior, can make ethical decisions online, not abuse technology, and encourage correct behavior when communicating and collaborating in the digital world. Also, it's the ability to interact positively, critically and efficiently in the digital environment, use effective communication and creativity skills, apply forms of social participation that respect human rights and dignity and the responsible use of technology. Therefore, education plays a vital role in preparing young people to live as active citizens and helping them acquire the skills and competencies they need.

    Since its beginning, the Internet has transformed our lives, connecting users and providing a virtual global online community for everyone as we discover common interests, share knowledge, and have meaningful discussions. For this, we have different responsibilities towards the citizen’s role in society, for example;  Like being a responsible citizen, obeying the law, protecting its privacy, and respecting the rights of others.  Likewise, as you become a digital citizen and research the online community - which we call the World Wide Web - you need to learn certain rules, behaviors, and good practices. 

    Being a good digital citizen starts with talking about other people who use the Internet, because derogatory comments and cyberbullying such as, have made it difficult to engage in meaningful dialogue about the site's original content.  Also, do not damage your reputation on social media by posting purposeless negative content.  Privacy also applies to more than just passwords. A good digital citizen should beware of sites that ask for a lot of information like addresses, phone numbers, birthdays, salaries, credit card details, and Social Security numbers.  Digital natives must also be taught to comply with the law in everything they do online.

    To sum up, digital citizenship is a new term imposed on us by technological and scientific developments. There is no home now that does not use the Internet, whether for learning, work, or even just entertainment. And since young people today live in a world transformed by digital technologies that easily connect and access large amounts of information through social media; it has become imperative to educate the next generation on the concept of digital citizenship.