“When Ravenscroft began its Chromebook program, we realized that seventh-grade students were using their personal Chromebooks without the benefit of instruction on the responsibilities involved. We wanted to start in the lower grades, teaching them how to conduct online research properly, and how to navigate all that is available online.  Being responsible with technology is a life lesson that needs to be learned early on,” said Fordham.

The trio of educators based their curriculum on a K-12 curriculum developed by Common Sense Media, a well-respected organization that works to educate about the impact technology and media have on students and families. The three teachers then tailored the lessons for Ravenscroft.

Because Zayas-Palmer and Fordham team teach twice a week in the fifth grade, they have begun to use the curriculum they developed with these students; however, the lessons can be easily tailored for all grades.

The digital citizenship curriculum is an extension of lessons in character already presented to students in all divisions. They teach respect and responsibility, using hands-on project-based learning techniques.

Beyond the basics of how to navigate the Internet and how to properly conduct oneself, the curriculum opens the door to a wide world of resources to help students learn that online research is more than just “Googling.” 

Christopher’s job is to be sure the most useful and up-to-date resources are available to teachers and students, and to provide instruction in their use.

“We want students to have reliable information about digital media, to understand the safety concerns, and to develop their digital literacy skills at an early age so they are prepared to excel in Middle and Upper School,” said Christopher.

For more information on digital literacy and citizenship curriculum, visit www.commonsense.org.