Having good digital citizenship means having appropriate, responsible behavior on the internet and also having an awareness of modern day technology. Most activity being done today whether its economically, educationally, and/or recreationally involves some type of technology. Consumers need to be aware of how to buy and sell goods over the internet, how to protect their identity on the internet, and how to use and access email. Text messaging, social networking, and computer based programs are also activities that modern day citizens need to be aware of.
I think teachers especially need to practice having good digital citizenship. I can remember when as a teacher, I had to call a parent back on the telephone when a parent had a question, write a hand-written letter, or wait for a formal parent conference to discuss student progress. Now, it's commonplace for me to receive a text message during the day from a parent asking a question, to converse with parents and students on Facebook, or to send daily emails about the latest need-to-know information. I perceive not learning about technology as being irresponsible as a teacher and as a citizen. Teachers need to prepare their students to compete in a technological society. In order to do that, they must have an awareness of technology themselves and the ever-changing advances in technology. It's difficult to keep up, but very important to do so. It's a new day for a new type of student. Having good digital citizenship also means having good digital etiquette. I think this is a gray area where the rules for this are still not clearly given. Of course, cyber bullying would be an example of what a good citizen would not participate in.
