Rights and Responsibilities

It is my opinion, and what I teach my students, that the digital world isn't a whole lot different than the real world.  What's good and beneficial in real life is good in the digital world.  I tell them everyone has a right to their own opinion, but they are responsible for expressing those opinions in an appropriate way at an appropriate time.  In a perfect world those that disagree would be able to enter into a respectable conversation and be able to part ways agreeing to disagree.  

I warn students that because this isn't a perfect world, they should be prepared to accept and deal with any consequences of expressing their opinions.  In the real world there are many who are unable to enter into a rational discussion even when face to face with those they disagree with.  I tell my students this drama is only accentuated online when respondents are anonymous and feel empowered to spew whatever they wish with no fear of consequences.  

We attempt to prepare our students for this digital drama by teaching them responsible behavior up front and how to detach from the drama that may follow.  Too bad we can't send a bunch of adults back to school to learn these lessons.  

William,
I agree 100% with your post. My perspective is as a counselor at an Elementary school. I am also a parent of two teenagers 15 and 19. I spend a lot of time teaching kids to problem solve and have conversations face to face before they get behind a screen so they will be better equipped to handle themselves in the digital world, Tory Dohrn

Exactly right.  I agree completely.

I agree to a face-to-face conversation first.  Too many times voice inflection and facial expressions are not interpreted in the manner meant.

Be respectful of the others' rights as you do your own.

Well said!