4 Characteristics of a God-Honoring Digital Citizen

digital citizenship should be upheld in the same way there are certain rules and expectations in a live classroom setting.

1. Well-Mannered

   When communicating with teachers and peers, the words you choose to type or verbally state should be kind and edifying. When contributing to web-based discussions, whether they are live or not, your comments should add value and be rooted in respect.
   
   Being well-mannered also involves creating a virtual environment that allows your classmates to learn without distractions. Make sure you are working in a quiet space without too much background noise; if there’s no way to avoid that, simply mute your microphone until you need to speak. And remember, if your webcam is on, everyone in the chat will be able to see your face, so be sure your facial expressions are not causing a disruption to the class.
   
   READ: 5 Tips for a Successful Distance Learning Experience
   
   

2. Responsible

   You will be responsible for keeping track of your assignments for each class. Be sure to check your school’s main online platform daily so you can stay on top of deadlines. During this highly digital time, going “old school” by using a tangible planner can serve as an effective and mentally refreshing way to visualize what needs to get done. Here are some you can order from the comfort of your couch if you don’t own one already! Whiteboards are another great option for monitoring daily and weekly assignments.
   
   Responsible digital citizens are also punctual ones! Make sure you’re meeting deadlines that have been set by your teachers and showing up to live chat sessions at the scheduled times. Logging on late can be a distraction to your classmates who are already engaged in the lesson.

   An engaged attitude is especially important in an online setting

3. Engaged

   When I think of being a “good citizen” in general, I think of someone who is engaged and communicative — someone who speaks up to share their thoughts and takes positive action. An engaged attitude is especially important in an online setting because a class discussion can’t happen without your participation!
   
   If your teacher is asking a question, don’t hesitate to respond. I’m in a fully online master’s program at the moment, and it’s always awkward when the teacher poses a question and all you hear is crickets . . . I get it. No one wants to be the first person to answer, or be the same person to keep answering, or perhaps you’re just introverted and find this whole talking to a camera thing very uncomfortable. I promise your distance learning experience will be so much more enjoyable once you and your peers get over that hump of hesitation. This may not even be an issue for your classes, to which I say, awesome! Let the rich learning and dialogue continue.
   
   

4. Supportive

   Just because you’re separated physically from your teachers and peers doesn’t mean you have to fly solo. We should be leaning on each other and relying on our school community for academic, spiritual, and emotional support, which is just as valuable in the virtual form.
   
   Are you tech savvy and are gifted with figuring out new programs quickly? Perhaps you can help a classmate who’s having a difficult time understanding the new technology. You can also check in with your friends and keep each other accountable to make sure you’re staying on top of assignments, understanding the material, and simply to see how they’re doing.
   
   Your teachers are also here to help you during this unique time. Don’t hesitate to ask them questions, and be sure to proactively communicate any information they ought to know in advance like absences or any other personal conflicts.