Pupils take special classes, exams for online ethics

Students aren’t just getting lectures about the safe usage of social media, they are now being given tests and exams on the subject, which count towards their final class grade.

Some pupils have shared how they are required to take a pledge to be a better digital citizen, and given exams in class on using the Internet safely and ethically.

A student at Gulf Model School in Dubai, Regan Dsouza, said: “The information technology special classes for students in secondary level cover the types of digital ethics and privacy. In fact, we have tests on this subject. In the world of

In the world of accelerating technology and media, the new generation easily gets caught up with it without knowing its pros and cons.”

Regan Dsouza, student

We are made aware of cyber bullying and how to face it. We are also taught the rules and values that should be followed on social media.”

Dhanvi Sayani, student

accelerating technology and media, the new generation easily gets caught up with it without knowing its pros and cons.”

Dhanvi Sayani, a student at GEMS Our Own English High School in Dubai, said pupils at her school have taken a pledge to be responsible Netizens. They also take tests that guide them on how to use social media responsibly. “As the use of social media among teenagers rises, such that there is no way you can stay away from it, our school has made sure that their students are safe online by teaching them digital ethics and privacy,” she said.

“We are made aware of the different types of cyber bullying and how to face it. We are also taught the rules and values that should be followed on social media. We have learned about things like digital footprint and cyber safety. And we students also write tests for this on the ‘Commonsense Media’, so our teachers know how reliable we can be online.

“We had also taken a pledge at school to use social media wisely. We have had assemblies, workshops and sessions where students are reminded about the dangers that exist online, and how we can stay safe by following a few simple rules on the digital podiums we have been provided with.”