What is digital citizenship and digital footprint? Digital Citizenship “refers to the responsible use of technology by anyone who uses computers, the internet, and digital devices to engage with society on any level” (Zook, 2022). Digital footprint “refers to the digital traces, trail, or footprint that is left behind after online activities and is available for others to find” (“Digital Citizenship/Digital footprint”, n.d.).  So how do these concepts affect educators and students? Our world is rapidly increasing in technological advancement. We use the internet all day and every day. The internet is a crucial part in society, which is why it is essential for educators to learn and teach the concept of digital citizenship and digital footprint. The internet is permanent and forever, which is why it is essential to understand the consequences posting one thing can have (“Digital Citizenship/Digital footprint”, n.d.). We engage and contribute to our digital footprint through several platforms. Platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, snapchat, Facebook, this blog post that you are reading right now. The internet is utilized in a variety of ways, it can be used to share photos/videos with the world, connect you to people, seek out and learn new information, etc. Like all things, internet has its pros and cons. As educators we can teach our students what it means to be a good digital citizen. A good digital citizen utilizes platforms to connect, engage, empathise, and build relationships (Zook, 2022) (“Digital Citizenship: The good, the bad, & the role of the internet,” 2019). On the other hand, a bad digital citizen utilizes platforms to cyberbully, irresponsibility use media, share hurtful things (Zook, 2022) (“Digital Citizenship: The good, the bad, & the role of the internet,” 2019). As educators we can teach good digital citizenship skills. Seven core concepts to teach in digital citizenship is empathy, how the internet works, understanding data, practicing digital literacy, acknowledging the digital divide, practicing digital wellness, and securing digital devices (Zook, 2022). The internet is here to say and will continuously grow and expand, as educators is our job to teach students how to utilize the internet effectively and safely. 

Digital Citizenship / digital footprint. / Digital Footprint. (n.d.). Retrieved November 14, 2022, from https://www.spps.org/Page/24458 

Digital Citizenship: The good, the bad, & the role of the internet. UAB Institute for Human Rights Blog. (2019, January 18). Retrieved November 14, 2022, from https://sites.uab.edu/humanrights/2019/01/18/digital-citizenship-the-good-the-bad-the-role-of-the-internet/ 

Zook, C. (2022, October 21). What is Digital Citizenship & How Do You Teach It? CTE Curriculum for Middle and High School Teachers. Retrieved November 14, 2022, from https://www.aeseducation.com/blog/what-is-digital-citizenship