Norms and Responsibilities

What user rights do you feel should be part of the norms in this digital world?  What user responsibilities do you feel should be expressed in this digital world?

The digital age is wondrous.  We have the right to share our ideas and to publish our works.  We also have the right to access the work of others and to gain knowledge from them.  With these rights come heavy responsibilities.  I often tell my students that in the United States, we all have certain rights.  However, we cannot use our rights to infringe on the rights of others.  We have laws that serve as guidelines that show us the extent of our rights.  The same should be true in the digital world.  Responsible and appropriate sharing and use is essential. We need to teach students that even though there are not always written laws that govern the internet, ethics and morals should direct our use.

I think the key is making sure the students do understand the responsibilities and the long term effects of what they share or see.