Norms and Responsibilities

Adults and students need to know the digital rights and responsibilities of the digital world. Technology has become part of many adults’ lives as well as all students' lives. With this kind of infusion into everyday life, too many people don’t understand or realize that for every post or tweet, or any other comment on the Internet, whether it is positive or negative, often there is a reaction/consequence. The reaction/consequence may be positive or negative as well. Although we need to take free speech into consideration, there is a line that can easily be crossed in the heat of an argument or discussion. Technology users must always be aware of being respectful and ethical. That puts a lot of responsibility on the user. Understanding “digital footprint” is key for responsible use of the Internet. It is also important that adults and students understand that anything can be put on the Internet whether it is true or not. To be responsible users, they must know how to research and be able to investigate their sources to make sure they are using reputable, valid resources.