norms/rights and responsibilities

The information and communication available to us in a matter of seconds on the internet is astounding. Anyone who accesses this information highway should be equipped with a correct understanding of the rights and responsibilities that accompany this privilege. All use of internet should include norms addressing freedom of speech, right to privacy, accountability and integrity. All of the laws that guide our live interaction with other citizens should be the guide for digital life as well. Though we have the right to express ourselves because of freedom of speech, it does not mean we have freedom from accountability for what we put out there for others to read. All users need to be aware that there are real people on the other side of our comments, posts, and creations. Users need to follow laws for intellectual property, understand that not everyone using the internet has good intentions, and whatever is posted can be traced back to the originator. An oversimplified guideline for internet use could be: Be respectful. Be honest. Be cautious.

Pamela, Your advise - "An oversimplified guideline for internet use could be: Be respectful. Be honest. Be cautious." is wonderful.  This advise is something that everyone who uses the internet should listen to.

I really like your guidelines, too!  They would be so simple to post on the classroom wall as a reminder to students to use the internet wisely!  "Be respectful. Be honest. Be cautious." should be in every room!