It is important to note that Common Sense Media is not the only platform available. ISTE has a plethora of resources as well and emphasizes the benefits of using social media in the classroom. In Digital for Good Richard Culatta explains five qualities youth should develop in order to thrive and contribute as a good digital citizen. Additionally, #ICANHELP is a non-profit that focuses on helping students and educators to “lead, educate, and engage” in the positive power of social media.
The Oshkosh Area School District also evaluates apps for curricular value and for data privacy. Teachers are able to request apps, extensions, and websites that they would like to use in the classroom with their students. First, the curricular team reviews the tool. If it is deemed appropriate, they send it to the technology integration team who reviews the Terms of Service and the Privacy Policy. Items that the team examines for each tool can include COPPA compliance, protection (or disclosure) of Personally Identifiable Information (PII), and compatibility with current technology. The resource will then be placed on an approved resources list and categorized as following: Green (district supported), Blue (approved but not supported), Yellow (approved with cautions), or Red (not approved). View more information on the Instructional Technology page from the Oshkosh Area School District website.
When families ask what resources are available, schools may refer them to Common Sense Media for Parents. Guardians are encouraged to engage in conversations with their children as to what apps they are using and who they are talking with online. Additionally, Google has offered Be Internet Awesome for internet safety. Often parents can change the settings on their child’s phone to regulate access. Cell phone and internet providers may also offer resources or tools. Ideas such as not allowing computers or phones to be charged overnight in bedrooms may be helpful.
Social media companies are also investing in ways to help children balance a healthy amount of social media. While TikTok has a Kids Mode for those under 13, they will be instituting time limits for children under 18. After one hour of screen time, it will prompt teens for a passcode causing the user to have to actively decide whether to keep scrolling on the app. Of course, it will be up to the user and the family to input the correct age information when signing up for an account to take advantage of these settings.
In conclusion, schools should work with educators and families to ensure students have an awareness of their digital footprint and teach ways that social media can be positive. Students need time to learn appropriate digital skills and practice those skills inside and outside of the classroom. These digital literacy skills will help them to be college, career, and community ready.
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