Technology+Report

Technology Report on Cyber Ethics “As computers become a larger part of the curriculum, educators everywhere are being asked to take a stand for cyber ethics, the right and wrong of computer and internet use” (Kruger, 2003). Have you borrowed a software program without having the proper license? Do you “borrow” information from the internet without giving proper citation? Have you downloaded music without permission? These are all examples of Cyber Ethics. Which side will you be on? As educators, we need to be setting an example for our students. Are we setting the right example? “As new technologies become increasingly common and integrated into all areas of school instruction and business, an up-to-date education on what is and is not a legal use of resources remains a crucial element of a workable 21st century literacy” (Davidson, 2005). Schools must set up a policy on Cyber Ethics. Students and teachers alike must be familiar with and adhere to the policy. This policy should be clear, concise, and easily understandable with consequences for violations. As the violations increase, so should the consequences. Why is Cyber Ethics so important? Cyber Ethics is the morality of the Internet. Do we teach our children to steal? No, so we must teach them that “Software piracy is the same as stealing, and it can have serious consequences. Yet, many students are unaware that it is wrong” (Kruger, 2003). What can we do about Cyber Ethics? We can “Teach by example…take a moment to show them the software license. Point out the © and explains what it means” (Kruger, 2003). As teachers we are experienced at finding teachable moments. We need to expand the teachable moments into technology. Another factor that needs to be addressed, “Many students are unaware of situations in which it is necessary to cite sources and do not have knowledge about ways to properly give credit for the electronic resources they use” (Niederhauser, Lindstrom, & Strobel, 2007). Are we doing enough? No, a Cyber Ethics policy is the first step. Next, we need to educate our teachers and our students about the policy and cyber ethics. Then, we need to provide opportunities for students to do more research and teach them the proper way to do it. Teachers need to be well versed in the areas of sources and proper citations. Cyber Ethics should be instilled in students at an early age and reinforced throughout their educational years. = Works Cited  = Davidson, H. (2005). Copyright Primer for Administrators. //Technology and Learning//. Kruger, R. (2003). Discussing Cyber Ethics with Students is Critical. //The Social Studies//, 188-189. Niederhauser, D. S., Lindstrom, D. L., & Strobel, J. (2007). Evidence of NETS*S in K-12 Classrooms: Implications for Teacher Education. //Journal of Technology and Teacher Education//, 483-512.