Nine Themes of Digital Citizenship
1. Digital Access: Technology users need to be aware that not everyone has the same opportunities when it comes to technology. To become productive citizens, we need to be committed to make sure that no one is denied digital access
2. Digital Commerce: Technology users need to understand that a large share of market economy is being done electronically. Legitimate and legal exchanges are occurring, but the buyer or seller needs to be aware of the issues associated with it.
3. Digital Communication: The expanding digital communication options have given the opportunity to communicate and collaborate with anyone from anywhere and anytime. Unfortunately, many users have not been taught how to make appropriate decisions when faced with so many different digital communication options.
4. Digital Literacy: Learners must be taught to learn anything, anytime, anywhere. As new technologies emerge, learners need to learn how to use that technology quickly and appropriately. Digital Citizenship involves educating people in a new way.
5. Digital Etiquette: Recognize inappropriate behavior when we see it, but it is not enough to create rules and policy, we must teach everyone to become responsible digital citizens in this new society.
6. Digital Law: Unethical use manifests itself in form of theft and/or crime. Ethical use manifests itself in the form of abiding by the laws of society. These laws apply to anyone who works or plays online.
7. Digital Rights & Responsibilities: Digital citizens have the right to privacy, free speech, etc. Basic digital rights must be addressed, discussed, and understood in the digital world. With these rights also come responsibilities as well.
8. Digital Health & Wellness: Eye safety, repetitive stress syndrome, and sound ergonomic practices are issues that need to be addressed in a new technological world. Digital Citizenship includes a culture where technology users are taught how to protect themselves through education and training.
9. Digital Security (self-protection): We need to have virus protection, backups of data, and surge control of our equipment. As responsible citizens, we must protect our information from outside forces that might cause disruption or harm.