December 1, 2024
The risks of inappropriate digital footprints are significant for students, parents, and teachers alike. It is an integral part of Future Readiness in Education.
For students, careless online behaviour can harm future educational and career opportunities.
Parents must guide their children to understand the importance of responsible online actions to safeguard their well-being and reputation.
Teachers play a crucial role in educating students about digital citizenship, emphasizing that their online actions have lasting consequences.
Here are some simple ways of talking to your children or students:
Parents can explain a digital footprint to young children by saying, “A digital footprint is like a trail of footprints you leave behind when you walk. Every time you use a computer, tablet, or phone, you leave little marks behind. These marks show what websites you visit, what you say online, and what pictures you share. Just like you would be careful not to leave a mess when you play, it’s important to be careful online so your footprints are nice and safe. Remember, once you leave a footprint online, it can be hard to erase, so always think before you click or share.”
Teachers can explain a digital footprint to older students by saying, “Your digital footprint is the record of everything you do online, including the websites you visit, the social media posts you make, and the emails you send. It’s like a permanent trail of your online activities. This footprint can impact your reputation, college applications, and job prospects because colleges and employers often check online profiles. It’s crucial to be mindful of what you share, ensuring it’s positive and respectful. Always think about the long-term consequences of your online actions and strive to create a digital footprint that reflects your best self.”
Always think before you post to protect yourself and others. Careless posts can lead to several dangers: