In the digital age in which we live, the concept of “digital citizens” has gained unprecedented relevance. A digital citizen is not only one who uses technology, but one who does so consciously, safely and responsibly. Digitalisation has transformed every aspect of our lives. From the way we work and learn from an early age, to how we communicate and entertain ourselves. Eurocolegio Casvi International Private School has stood out as a benchmark in the training of digital citizens.
DIGITAL EDUCATION AND DIGITAL LEARNING TODAY
Digital education and digital learning have become fundamental pillars in this new era. New technologies have opened up a range of opportunities for access to information and knowledge. This allows for more dynamic and interactive learning. However, with these opportunities also come challenges that require adequate preparation to be addressed effectively.
A recent study by the Pew Research Centre shows that 59% of teenagers have experienced some form of online bullying, and the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre reports that phishing has increased by 220% in recent years.
This data underlines the importance of preparing new generations to use technology safely and ethically.
It is in this context that digital safety and online responsibility become crucial. Building digital citizens involves not only teaching them how to use technological tools. It also involves teaching them to do so in a safe and ethical way. The protection of privacy, the prevention of cyberbullying and the responsible use of information are essential aspects that must be instilled from an early age. This is the only way to ensure that future generations are prepared to navigate the digital world safely.
THE HIDDEN CHALLENGES OF THE DIGITAL WORLD
In an increasingly interconnected world, the risks associated with the use of technology are a reality we cannot ignore. From cyberbullying to identity theft, online dangers are numerous and affect users of all ages. Below, we explore the main challenges facing digital citizens and the importance of proper education to mitigate these risks.
1. ONLINE RISKS
In the digital environment, users face a number of dangers that can have serious consequences. Among the most common are:
- CYBERBULLY: It can have devastating effects on the mental health and well-being of victims, causing anxiety, depression and, in severe cases, fatal consequences. Lack of empathy and the invisible barriers of the digital world facilitate this type of aggression.
- PHISHING: Through fraudulent emails or messages, cybercriminals seek to obtain personal or financial information from victims. According to Symantec’s Annual Cybersecurity Report, more than 156 million phishing emails are sent every day, highlighting the need for proper training on how to detect these attacks.
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PRIVACY LOSS: With the amount of information we share online, protecting personal data is becoming increasingly difficult. Studies by the Centre for Cybersecurity and Data Protection show that 45% of young people do not know how to properly adjust their privacy settings on social networks.
2. LACK OF KNOWLEDGE
Lack of digital literacy is a critical factor contributing to the irresponsible and dangerous use of today’s technology. Many users are unaware of best practices for protecting their information online, leaving them vulnerable to attacks and fraud. Without proper training, it is easy to fall into digital traps that can have negative repercussions both personally and professionally.
3. IMPACT ON YOUNG PEOPLE
As digital natives, young people are constantly exposed to new technologies from an early age. However, this familiarity does not always translate into safe and responsible use. Young people are particularly vulnerable to online risks due to their lack of experience and knowledge about how to protect themselves. Without proper training, they can become victims of various digital dangers, which can affect their development.
SOLUTIONS: BUILDING A SECURE DIGITAL FUTURE
Meeting the challenges of the digital world requires a proactive and multifaceted approach. Here are a number of solutions that can help build responsible and safe digital citizens, from early education to the implementation of robust policies.
1.-DIGITAL EDUCATION
The foundation for safe and responsible use of technology starts with digital education. It is crucial to implement educational programmes that teach children and young people about digital safety and online responsibility from an early age. These programmes should include topics such as protecting privacy, identifying online threats and ethical behaviour in the digital environment. By integrating this knowledge into the school curriculum, we can prepare future generations to navigate the digital world with confidence and safety.
2.- TOOLS AND RESOURCES
There are numerous tools available to help parents and educators monitor and guide technology use. From parental control applications such as Qustodio and Family Link, to educational platforms such as Common Sense Education. These tools allow for active accompaniment in the digital literacy process.
3.- POLICIES AND REGULATIONS
The implementation of policies and regulations is essential to creating a comprehensive digital security environment. Educational institutions and governments must work together to develop and enforce regulations that protect users and promote safe online practices. This includes creating robust privacy policies, regulating online content and promoting digital literacy. By establishing a strong legal and regulatory framework, we can ensure that all digital citizens are protected and educated about their rights and responsibilities in the digital world.
TRAINING DIGITAL CITIZENS IN CASVI VILLAVICIOSA
At Eurocolegio Casvi International Private School, the formation of digital citizens is not just a goal, but a palpable reality. Through a comprehensive and proactive approach, the school has implemented an innovative educational programme that prioritises digital safety and online responsibility. It prepares its students to face the challenges of the digital world with confidence and ethics.
These challenges and needs have led Casvi Villaviciosa to implement different initiatives in cybersecurity both outside and inside the classroom. From Cybersecurity Education Programmes to Cybersecurity Workshops or Competitions.
“For us, cyber security is as important as any other academic discipline. With the increased reliance on technology in all aspects of our lives, cyber risks have also increased. Therefore, it is essential to teach online safety from an early age”.
CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES
Eurocolegio Casvi, in Villaviciosa de Odón, has integrated digital education into its curriculum in a comprehensive way. From the First Cycle of Preschool Education, students receive training in digital competences, with a particular emphasis on online safety and responsibility. This approach includes teaching good practices to protect privacy. Also to identify digital threats and behave ethically in the digital environment. In addition, the school uses advanced technological tools to facilitate interactive and dynamic learning. In this way they ensure that students are not only consumers of technology, but also responsible creators.
ACTIVITIES OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM
Among others, guided by the company Educalike, a series of talks on different topics are given on a regular basis for the Primary, Secondary and Baccalaureate stages: knowledge and prevention of the dangers associated with the use of social networks or mobile phones; prevention of cyberbullying, grooming and sexting; help, responsibilities and complaints.
There are also those offered by public institutions such as the Local Police or the Guardia Civil’s Master Plan, which expressly focus on the risks of the Internet and Social Networks.
RESULTS OF THESE INITIATIVES
The results are evident. Students at Eurocolegio Casvi International Private School not only demonstrate a high level of digital competence. They also exhibit responsible and ethical online behaviour. In fact, the Casvi Schools have recently been awarded in the XVII ICT Security Trophies of ‘Red Seguridad’.
“Thanks to the workshops and projects at Casvi, I feel much safer surfing the internet and I know how to protect my personal information,” confirms one of his students.
“The integration of digital education into our curriculum has transformed the way we teach and learn. Students are more engaged and aware of online risks and responsibilities,” adds one of their teachers.
