VOICES

In today's connected world, computer literacy means more than just using technology; it means using it well, responsibly, and safely. At Keys, we believe that fostering a healthy online community is a joint effort involving students, teachers, and parents.

Students' Responsibilities  

1. Think before they click: Every post, comment, and share leaves a digital trace. We teach them to pause and ask, "Is it helpful? Is it true? Is it kind?" before they engage online.  
2. Respect others in digital environments: Just as respect is essential in our physical classrooms, it is equally important online. This means no cyberbullying, being considerate of different viewpoints, and treating classmates and teachers with respect in virtual spaces.  
3. Keep personal data private: We actively develop skills in managing privacy settings, recognizing phishing scams, and safeguarding personal information.  
4. Develop original work: We encourage creativity while teaching the importance of citing sources, understanding copyrights, and recognizing fair use guidelines.

      Grade 7 students utilize digital technology in their day-to-day work in the classroom. 

Teachers’ Responsibilities

1. Embed digital citizenship into the curriculum: Our educators include topics of digital responsibility in everyday learning across all subjects.  
2. Model good internet behavior: Our teachers demonstrate appropriate online interactions, professional social media conduct, and ethical research practices for students, showing them what digital responsibility looks like in action.  
3. Create safe virtual learning spaces: From establishing clear online classroom rules to using secure tools, our educators prioritize student safety in all online activities.

Parents' Roles   

1. Have open discussions: We encourage families to regularly share both positive and negative online experiences. These conversations help children make sense of their digital interactions and learn from them.  
2. Establish reasonable boundaries: Along with the school, parents can set limits on screen time and help children understand when and how to use technology wisely.  
3. Monitor without hovering: Instead of strict surveillance, we support active supervision that helps children learn to make good decisions on their own while remaining available for assistance when needed.

One of our Keys Parent Ambassadors, Maita De Jesus, always ensures that her daughter Evita is well-guided in using digital platforms. 

Photo © Maita De Jesus

Digital responsibility is not a destination; it's an ongoing journey that requires continuous learning and adjustment. At Keys, we are committed to refining our approach as technology changes, always prioritizing our students' well-being and development. Through collaboration among students, educators, and parents, we aim to prepare our youth to use technology responsibly today. We are equipping them to become responsible digital citizens who will foster a better online environment for everyone.

“Living in a Digital World” is a blog series which features Keys School Manila’s insights and tips on navigating digital tools which will allow students, teachers, and parents to uphold responsible media and technology literacy. This blog is the fifth in the series.