Citizenship education and tackling disinformation in schools

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@AHLEM18c600e513
In addressing the pervasive issue of disinformation within the digital landscape, citizenship education must evolve to emphasize the cultivation of critical digital literacy skills. This involves not only teaching individuals how to discern reliable sources from misinformation but also fostering a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms driving the spread of false information online. Citizenship education can incorporate lessons on cognitive biases, echo chambers, and the algorithms shaping our online experiences. By equipping individuals with the ability to navigate the complexities of the digital realm, citizenship education empowers them to be proactive, discerning participants in the online discourse, thereby mitigating the harmful effects of disinformation on society.

@OUSSAfd6aa665af

I agree,

Citizenship education in schools is crucial for nurturing informed and responsible citizens, especially in combating disinformation. A multi-faceted approach is needed, starting with incorporating media literacy and critical thinking into the curriculum to help students evaluate sources and recognize misinformation.

Schools should also facilitate discussions on the ethical implications of sharing unverified information and the importance of responsible online behavior. Partnerships with media organizations and fact-checking initiatives can provide practical tools for navigating the digital landscape. By empowering students to become discerning consumers and responsible creators of information, schools play a vital role in countering disinformation and promoting a more informed society.

I try to combine this approach with community-based learning for my students with disability. For them this combination seems to be more relevant and build a bridge from school to their communities.

Digital devices are under debate recently, OECD on the basis of large scale assessment is trying to figure out wether they have detrimental distraction or truly secret to success. The reason is that they have exponential increase, parallel to potential risks, they are being actively used as digital aids from preschool to universities.

Digital devices have come under scrutiny recently, with debates revolving around their disadvantages. Foremost among these concerns is their potential to cause distraction, particularly among students and workers, due to constant notifications and access to social media. Moreover, excessive device usage has been associated with negative impacts on mental health, including increased anxiety, depression, and addiction. Sedentary lifestyles resulting from prolonged screen time contribute to health problems such as obesity and cardiovascular issues. Privacy and security risks abound as personal data becomes increasingly vulnerable to breaches and unauthorized access. Paradoxically, while digital connectivity offers the promise of social interaction, over-reliance on digital communication can lead to social isolation. Additionally, concerns arise regarding the impact on learning, with fears that shallow engagement and diminished critical thinking skills may result from excessive device use. Lastly, the environmental toll of device production, usage, and disposal adds to the list of disadvantages, contributing to electronic waste and energy consumption. These concerns underscore the necessity for a balanced approach to digital device usage, mindful of both their benefits and potential drawbacks.

The quote oversimplifies the debate around digital devices by presenting them as either solely detrimental distractions or keys to success. It ignores the broader context of discussions on digital literacy, privacy, mental health, and access disparities. The quote lacks evidence or context regarding the assessments mentioned, which undermines its credibility. By framing the debate in such binary terms, it overlooks other important dimensions like social interactions, creativity, and well-being. This simplistic portrayal may polarize opinions and hinder constructive dialogue on the complex relationship between humans and technology.

@Bousl2336873cb4

Hi Bousl,

Hope everything is going well. I agree with you with the effort to make a balance. In today's classrooms, striking a balance in the use of technology is crucial for fostering an effective learning environment. While technology offers interactive learning experiences, and personalized education, it is essential to integrate it thoughtfully for good.

As teachers we have a responsibility to blend traditional teaching methods with technological tools or assistive technology to enhance rather than overshadow the learning process. For instance, digital resources can complement hands on activities and face to face discussions, promoting critical thinking and collaboration among students. I think we need to discuss with our students' clear guidelines for technology use, that will make a difference.

Best,
Mr. Bryan

Dear Bryan
Indeed dear colleague, except that this new technology requires more time and effort from the teacher and especially more funding from schools and ministries of education, .....as a result, developing countries such as our country Tunisia find certain problems in integrating these new technologies.
Best regrads from Tunisia
Chokri

@Bousl2336873cb4

Best of luck on that Bousl. Once you as a teacher recognize and identifies the challenge is easier to create solutions and expose to your educational system.

Best,
Mr. Bryan

For instance, in the Russian Federation there is a ban on the use of personal mobile phones in school lessons has been included in the Russian Education Law.

However, the ban does not include interactive boards and personal computers, tablets used for educational purposes.

Of course, not all schools have this equipment, and some teachers face challenges in organising and truly benefiting from the advantages of mobile learning.

@Ana_moderator

Hi Ana,
Hope everything is going well.

As a SPED teacher for a living skills program, I use cellphones in a functional way, because it is a great technology for independence promotion. For my students it becomes a learning tool in the classroom and as an assistive technology for them at their natural environments (home, community, etc.).

Hope not to be ban here in Puerto Rico, at least in my program.

Best,
Mr. Bryan