https://tellzim.com/digital-citizenship-key-skills-and-best-practices-for-learners/ *Digital Citizenship: Key skills and Best Practices for Learners* By Langton Chikaka In today’s digital milieu, learners are consistently interacting with technology . In consequence, it is quintessential for learners to be in sync with digital citizenship skills which will enable them to navigate the online terrain responsibly and effectively. Digital citizenship is a concept which helps teachers, technopreneurs and parents to understand what learners should know to use technology. This is so much if one considers the growth of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) in our schools and the growing need to talk about responsible use of technology. The Concept Digital Citizenship Digital citizenship can be referred to as digital ethics or simply digital wellness. It is an increasingly vital concept in this interconnected age. Digital citizenship encompasses the norms of appropriate and responsible behavior when using technology and indudes everything from online ethics and safety to managing one’s digital footprint The learner should have the ability to protect private information online, mitigate risks associated with cyberthreats and utilizing infomation and media in a responsible, respectful, knowledgeable and legal way. Key skills on Digital Citizenship Being a good digital citizen involves a user with a set of skils that everyone, from teachers to children, needs to have in order to use technology appropriately. In today’s digital milieu, learners are constantly interacting with technology.To be in syne with digital citizenship landscape, learners need skills which will enable them to navigate the online terrain responsibly and effectively. Digital citizenship is a concept which helps teachers, technopreneurs and parents to understand what learners should know to use technology. This is so much so if one considers the growth of Bring your own Device (BYOD) in our schools and the growing need to talk about responsible use of technology. For a learner to survive well in a digital world, they need to have the following skills: Digital literacy Learnes need to understand technology and its applications. Those learners with a full understanding of technology know how to use digital tools and platforms and can navigate with relative ease the digital environment. Online safety Learners need real guidance an how to protect personal information and avoid online threats and scams. The online safety training can help students understand cyber bullying and online harassment. Digital etiquette Digital etiquette, also known as netiquette, refers to a set of rules and guidelines governing online behavior and communication. It encompasses norms and expectations for online interaction using social media, online forums and email. Digital etiquette is important to learners in that it: • promotes respectful online interactions • helps learners understand online norms and expectations, • encourages responsible digital behaviour • enhances digital literacy and citizenship Critical thinking This skill is essential for digital citizenship as it enables learners to: • analyse onene content and arguments • assess aline risks and benefits • evaluate digital tools and platfoms make infamed choices about online activities Best Practices In today’s digital era, schools are called upon to do everything possible to promote digital citizenship which is crucial for learners to navigate the online milieu responsibly. In order to achieve this, several best practices can be implemented. 1. Modeling responsible behaviour Learners, teachers and technopreneurs must all demonstrate respectful online interactions and responsible digital behavior which sets a positive example for others to follow. 2. Setting clear expectations Establishing clear quidelines and policies helps learners understand expectations and consequences of online actions 3. Encouraging Critical Thinking Teaching critical evaluation of online stuff and promoting media literacy enables learners lo make informed decisions 4. Digital footprint management This is the process of controlling and managing an individual’s online presence and digital trail. It involves being cautious of the information shared online, monitoring online activity and taking steps to maintain a positive and professional digital reputation. The following moves can be super helpful : • using strong passwords and enabling two factor authentication • being cautious when sharing personal data or infor online • regularly reviewing and updating online profiles • Using privacy settings to control who can see online information Challenges of digital citizenship Keeping up with evolving technology .. . Addressing cyberbullying and online harassment Ensuring digital equity and access Conclusion Digital citizenship is extremely important for learners to thrive in the moden digital world . By developing key skills and adopting best practices, learners can become responsible digital citizens promoting a positive and safe online community.