Saturday, February 7, 2015

21st Century Learning -Legal Pt..1

There are several legal and ethical issues that come up when discussing 21st Century learning and our students. They can range from the use of social networking tools and professional vs. personal personas of staff to cyberbullying and the school's role in supporting those involved.
  • Should teachers use social networking tools with their students?
  • Should teachers personally use social networking tools? and where do teachers draw the line between friends/colleagues/parents? OCT -Use of Electronic Communication and Social Media
  • Do teachers have the skills/understanding to protect themselves and how can we support this? 
  • Do they understand what is required to support students and keep them safe when online?
  • How do teachers/leaders best instruct students in becoming strong digital citizens?
  • How can we ensure teachers are addressing digital citizenship when its not a 'required subject'?



These questions all deserve time and attention -as well as so many others. However, demands from school boards and 'Ministry initiatives' often take that time and attention and teachers are left feeling unsure about how to move forward. When they are not sure how to move forward, their use of technology stalls. As Eric Sheninger says, in his book Digital Leadership "consistent innovation, effective integration of technology, meaningful professional development , connecting beyond the walls of a brick-and-mortar building , and an open mind are all MANDATORY DUTIES of a leader in the digital age" (pg. xviii). If we hope to be effective leaders in the digital age, we have to prioritize the integrated use of technology and the responsibilities of being digital citizens while supporting our staff with the necessary professional development and support.

How do other boards address digital citizenship? ICT instruction?
What PD do boards offer their staff about security online or responsible use of social media?


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2 comments:

  1. UnknownFebruary 8, 2015 at 4:36 PM

    Hi Nicole. I'm in Waterloo and if I searched our 'PD Place' for digital citizenship, security on line or responsible use I wouldn't find a single course where these ideas are the sole topic. As a PD instructor, it's my responsibility to weave it into every course I teach, whether its iPad Content Creation or Web 2.0 tools. I represent the board and therefore advocate our Responsible Use Policy at every opportunity. Having said that, I am partners with our board's Technology Support Teacher who has created and refines a wonderful presentation that she will take to staff meetings and workshops both locally and provincially. At the core is this poster. https://markcarbone.files.wordpress.com/2010/04/dc_poster.jpg
    Every school has one. It has evolved in recent years and I'm sure it will continue to do so.

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    Replies
    1. ZoeFebruary 17, 2015 at 11:04 AM

      Thanks for sharing Trish. WRDSB is certainly leading with some of the PD opportunities for the staff. I love the fact that you emphasize that it is an ever evolving process.

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