It is important to foster a global approach to digital citizenship. A global approach helps to grow an awareness of being a part of something bigger than themselves. It can be difficult for some to see outside of themselves or to be self-aware. Taking a global perspective promotes a healthy and safe online environment for everyone and see all humanity as part of our community.

I think this can be particularly difficult as the digital community is, by and large, invisible. The idea that “as long as feels good, makes me happy and doesn’t hurt anyone, it’s fine,” is pervasive in our culture. The thing is, it is pretty easy to forget that there is someone on the other side of the computer somewhere else that our actions can affect. There can also be a lot of anonymity that allows students to think they can experiment and get away with things on the internet that they might not do in “real life.” This is where parents and educators need to partner to both model and teach young people what being ethical online looks like and why it is important to all people.