The nine elements of digital citizenship

The Nine Elements of Digital Citizenship.

1.Digital Access

This certain technology is used for quick communication between people in a society who are in large numbers. However, not all tools of this technology can be at reach by everyone because of social issues such as disabilities as well as physical location (Ribble, 2011).

2.Digital Commerce

Under digital commerce, goods and products are sold and bought online using electronic processes. Uncommonness of this technology to students and people is because of the fear of internet scams and identity theft (Ribble, 2011). 

3.Digital Communication

Digital Communication is when people exchange information through electronic devices in the form of cell phones and social networks. This form of communication has created a new social structure governing how, when and with whom people should interact with. Most organisations use this technology for business purposes and people who are not exposed to technology find this form of communication difficult to use (Ribble, 2011). 

4.Digital Literacy

Digital Literacy is “the process of teaching and learning about technology and the use of technology”. The importance aspect of technology is to understand how it can be used in an appropriate manner. However, teaching people on how to use technology appropriately is becoming history every day (Ribble, 2011). 

5.Digital Etiquette

Digital Etiquette refers to "electronic standards of conduct or procedure." Technology users often see this area as one of the most pressing problems when dealing with Digital Citizenship. We recognize inappropriate behaviour when we see it, but before people use technology they do not learn digital etiquette (i.e. appropriate conduct).   Many people feel uncomfortable talking to others about their digital etiquette.  Often rules and regulations are created or the technology is simply banned to stop inappropriate use. It is not enough to create rules and policy, we must teach everyone to become responsible digital citizens in this new society (Ribble, 2011).  

6.Digital Law

 Digital Law refers to "electronic responsibility for actions and deeds." Digital law deals with the ethics of technology within a society. Unethical use manifests itself in form of theft and/or crime. Ethical use manifests itself in the form of abiding by the laws of society. Users need to understand that stealing or causing damage to other people’s work, identity, or property online is a crime. There are certain rules of society that users need to be aware in a ethical society. These laws apply to anyone who works or plays online. Hacking into others information, downloading illegal music, plagiarizing, creating destructive worms, viruses or creating Trojan Horses, sending spam, or stealing anyone’s identify or property is unethical (Ribble, 2011).  

7.Digital Rights & Responsibilities

This element is all about freedom and requirements extended to people who use electronic components in the digital world (Ribble, 2011).  

8.Digital Health & Wellness

Digital Health & Wellness refers to "physical and psychological well-being in a digital technology world." Eye safety, repetitive stress syndrome, and sound ergonomic practices are issues that need to be addressed in a new technological world.  Beyond the physical issues are those of the psychological issues that are becoming more prevalent such as Internet addiction.  Users need to be taught that there are inherent dangers of technology. Digital Citizenship includes a culture where technology users are taught how to protect themselves through education and training (Ribble, 2011).  

9.Digital Security (self-protection)

This refers to "electronic precautions to guarantee safety." In any society, there are individuals who steal, deface, or disrupt other people. The same is true for the digital community. It is not enough to trust other members in the community for our own safety. In our own homes, we put locks on our doors and fire alarms in our houses to provide some level of protection. The same must be true for the digital security. We need to have virus protection, backups of data, and surge control of our equipment. As responsible citizens, we must protect our information from outside forces that might cause disruption or harm (Ribble, 2011).  

Ribble, M. 2011. Nine themes of digital citizenship, Digital Citizenship. [Online]. Available at http://www.digitalcitizenship.net/Nine_Elements.html [Accessed on 11 June 2015].