Chapter 10.2 : Digital Citizenship: The Voices from Our Community

Hello, everyone! Fae here with her last blog upload! for this blog I will make it much more special and long since it will be my last. On the last module that was given to us we were tasked to interview 3-5 non-professional individuals after which we will be making a summary on the answers on the interview that I conduscted. I will be summarizing them based on the answers that they have given.

1. Have you heard of the term “digital citizenship”?

•  If yes: What do you think it means? 
• The first interviewee defines “digital citizenship” as 'how we present ourselves online, which includes interacting with other digital citizens mindfully with proper netiquette. It is similar to how we go on with our everyday lives, but in the cyber world.'
  
• The second interviewee defines “digital citizenship” as to 'the ethical and responsible use of technology as well as well as it's application to our daily lives and the internet. It also compromise of the responsibilities that we have as online users whilst being mindful of the digital footprint that we generate.'

• If no: What do you think it might mean based on the word?
• The third interviewee has not heard the word “digital citizenship” but defines it as ' something that pertains to the responsibility that users have online and the identity that they're building online, or digitally.'

2. Do you use a cellphone, tablet, or computer that connects to the internet?

•  The first interviewee uses a phone and a computer. She also answered that she uses the internet for academics, social interaction, and fun online activities.
• The second interviewee uses these deviced to keep track with the current news, tracking stock trends as well as manage daily tasks. Where in their online foot print also includes using these devices for communication, and occasionally for leisure.
• The third interviewee uses these devices to upskill, socialize, and entertain themself through different means. It helps them build the foundation for quite a lot of things that they deem necessary especially when it comes to working with people, and applying them in the physical world.

3. How do you decide what to post or share online (e.g., on Facebook or TikTok)?

•  The first interviewee answered that the most important rule I go by is to not reveal too much of my personal information and she ensures that she keeps her privacy by not posting too much on social media.
• The second interviewee has snwered that he prioritize checking if the legitimacy of the content and consider how it might impact both their personal image and the audience that it may reach when they do decide to post or share something online. Typically avoiding content that promote false information or misleading news which can negatively impact their credibility and negatively affect those around me. They make it a point to thoroughly read before clicking the share or post button and ensure that the content is relevant and aligns with his values.
• The third interviewee answered that he posts whatever he deems entertaining or taht validating enough for him. He also follows most of the guidelines that platforms have which obviously prevent anyone from spreading content that isn't safe, or content that contains information that are not true at all.

4. Have you ever experienced or seen something negative online (like fake news, insults, scams)?

• The first interviewee answered that she had some experiences a lot of negativity online, which varies from having arguments to being a victim of misinformation and scams. As such, with this she ensures to always remind her parents to be careful of what they see and interact with online.
• The second interviewee answered that he had some experiences as aswell with negative content online including fake news, insults, and scams.  He shares that It’s disheartening to see how easily some people believe such content and how others take advantage of vulnerable individuals. Unfortunately, hate exists online, whether it's from people with differing values or strangers. While he finds it disappointing, He’ve learned to manage his reactions by setting clear boundaries. As long as these boundaries aren’t crossed, He tends to ignore or disengage from such negativity.
• The third interviewee shared that at first, he really didn't bother checking other sources for proof, he always thought every thing in the internet was true, not considering the fact that anyone might just be bluffing with each post that they do.

5. What advice would you give to young people using the internet or social media today?

• The first interviewee gave an advice to the youth that they should always fact-check. One can be vulnerable to the cons of the usage of social media and the internet if they are not responsible and mindful of how they use it. It could be an advantage if we use it wisely, but it could be just as bad if we are impulsive with how we act.
• The second interviewee gave an inspiring advice to the youth by saying that using the internet or social media today is to be vigilant and mindful about what they encounter online. Always be critical of what you see online, how you use the internet and utilize technology. Keep your online presence positive by sharing content that reflects your true values. Remember, once you post something, it’s often permanent, so think carefully of how you want to perceived and how your online persona can affect you as an overall individual. Be respectful, avoid spreading negativity or misinformation, and use the internet to empower yourself, not bring you down or your fellow.
• The third interviewee gave an advice to the youth that they should be cautious with the content that they consume. And take care of their personal identity offline as people can easily use that against them beyond their control online, which is a tough situation for most. Think before you click, and it might just save you from being involved in heinous things.
  
  

In conclusion:

The concept of digital citizenship, as understood by the interviewees, revolves around responsible and ethical behavior in the online world. The first interviewee describes it as how individuals present themselves digitally, emphasizing mindful interactions and proper netiquette, akin to real-world conduct. The second interviewee defines it as the ethical use of technology, highlighting responsible online actions and awareness of one’s digital footprint. The third, unfamiliar with the term, interprets it as the responsibility and identity users cultivate online, underscoring accountability in digital spaces. Together, these perspectives frame digital citizenship as a blend of mindfulness, ethics, and responsibility in navigating the internet.

All interviewees use internet-connected devices like phones, computers, or tablets for varied purposes. The first uses them for academics, social interaction, and fun activities, while the second tracks news, stocks, and daily tasks, also using devices for communication and occasional leisure. The third employs devices for upskilling, socializing, and entertainment, viewing them as foundational for work and real-world applications. When deciding what to share online, they exercise caution: the first prioritizes privacy by limiting personal information, the second ensures content legitimacy and alignment with personal values to avoid misinformation, and the third posts entertaining or validating content while adhering to platform guidelines to prevent spreading false or unsafe information.

Negative online experiences, such as fake news, insults, and scams, are common among the interviewees, shaping their advice for young internet users. The first, having faced arguments and misinformation, urges fact-checking and responsible use to balance the internet’s benefits and risks. The second, disheartened by online hate and deception, advises vigilance, critical thinking, and maintaining a positive digital presence, noting the permanence of online actions. The third, initially naive about online content’s truthfulness, recommends caution with consumed content and protecting personal identity to avoid harmful situations. Collectively, their advice emphasizes critical thinking, mindfulness, and a value-driven approach to ensure safe and empowering internet use.

How about you? What are your thoughts on the questions and answers that the three interviewees gave? let me know on the comments below! 

Love lots💗,

Fae