teach42morrow: DigCitCommit Virtual Congress

Last week, I had the opportunity to travel to Facebook Headquarters for the first ever DigCitCommit Virtual Congress, sponsored by ISTE and a number of other educational partners. We are still overwhelmed by the people and the mission of this initiative.

The importance of "flipping the narrative" around digital citizenship in schools is necessary now more than ever. Instead of scaring our young people into being safe online and sometimes over-encouraging them to "put away their device", we instead should be promoting positive usage and healthy presence in online spaces for all.

The DigCitCommit competencies include the following:

Inclusive - I am open to hearing and respectfully recognizing multiple viewpoints and I engage with others online with respect and empathy.

Informed - I evaluate the accuracy, perspective, and validity of digital media and social posts.

Engaged - I use technology and digital channels for civic engagement, to solve problems and be a force for good in both physical and virtual communities.

Balanced - I make informed decisions about how to prioritize my time and activities online and off.

Alert - I am aware of my online actions, and know how to be safe and create safe spaces for others online.

I can truly say that because of the DigCitCommit Virtual Congress event, I am inspired by student activists, fueled by positive change agents, and surrounded by new friendships.