Norms and Responsibilities

Users rights are too often believed by some as meaning anything goes. Both students, as well as adults, need to understand the responsibility that goes with digital access and not infringing on the rights of others. Sites of social media have the responsibility of monitoring content. Schools have the responsibility to educate their community on such topics and enforcing them in the areas of their control.

The anything goes concept is unfortunately a typical thought of a lot of users. It's easy to spout off something on social media that one would not have the boldness to say in person. It is very important for us to teach our students (and frequently adults) that a person is always accountable for what he/she says. They must understand that statements posted on the web in a moment of anger can cause them legal troubles just as much (if not more) than comments made in person.