Course Overview and Outline

Transcription

1 Course Overview and Outline The My Digital Life curriculum is comprised of seven modules that cover key concepts for building digital literacy. Each module contains between three and nine brief activities and a pre- and post- assessment to measure knowledge gain. An overview of each of the seven modules is included below. Modules 1. Choosing a Computer: This module provides an overview of computer hardware and software in the context of making informed decisions when choosing a computer. Choosing a Computer An exploration of the different considerations when selecting a computer for school, including hard drive size, performance, internet capabilities, and computer type (desktop vs. laptop vs. tablet). What Software do I need? A discussion of evolving software technologies, including open Family Computer Cloud Computing source software. An exploration of the different considerations when selecting a computer for a family, including hard drive size, performance, internet capabilities, and computer type (desktop vs. laptop vs. tablet). A discussion of cloud computing and its benefits 35 min. 2. Wireless Communication: This module includes a discussion of the uses and services of wireless communication and strategies for using mobile devices in safe and responsible ways. The Right Plan A discussion of what to consider when selecting a cell phone and phone plan, and an overview of smart phone features, applications, and capabilities Coverage Issues An overview of how cell phones transmit messages and the underlying causes of coverage issues and service interruptions.

2 Texting and Driving Photos Gone Viral and Jennifer s Picture A discussion of the dangers and consequences of using phones while driving in the context of stopping a friend from texting while driving. An explanation of the dangers and negative consequences of sending sexually explicit messages to others. 25 min. 3. The Viral World: The module discusses the various methods of digital communication and best practices for using these methods in safe and responsible ways. The Computer Virus A discussion of computer viruses and their potential to spread rapidly and have damaging effects. Secure Sites Viruses Attack Secure Social Networks Identify Theft Digital Addiction My Digital Use An overview of the dangers and consequences of not protecting one s identity online and tips and strategies for securing one s identity. Advice for protecting one s computer from viruses and for dealing with a computer virus effectively. Tips and strategies for setting up a secure online profile, including limiting personal information, customizing privacy settings, and creating strong passwords. A story of identity theft and advice on how to protect oneself from experiencing it. An overview of what is means to have a digital addiction (definition, signs, and symptoms) and the consequences of overusing technology. Tips and strategies for reducing one s time spent with technology or for keeping one s technology use in check. 35 min.

3 4. Internet Resources and Credibility: This module discusses best practices for conducting online research, including how to investigate the credibility of online sources and how to cite sources responsibly. Credible Sources A discussion of how to effectively investigate and verify the credibility of online sources. Plagiarism Pitfalls Responsible Technology Use An overview of plagiarism and what it entails and tips and strategies for sourcing web materials effectively. An overview of the consequences of committing plagiarism and advice for using technology responsible at school. 20 min. 5. Creating Multimedia Products: This module discusses the various uses and benefits of emerging technologies and offers tips and strategies for safe and responsible digital publishing. Multimedia Projects A discussion of the uses and benefits of using technology in the classroom and for school projects. Blog Editing Tips and strategies for effectively setting up and using a blog. Understanding Copyright Viral Downloads A discussion of the purpose of copyright and intellectual property laws and guidelines for distinguishing between infringement and fair use. A story of piracy and its negative effects. 30 min.

4 6. Digital Relationships and Respect: This module discusses the problem of cyberbullying, including what activities constitute cyberbullying, the associated consequences of cyberbullying, and tips and strategies for intervening and putting an end to cyberbullying behaviors. Cyberbullying Myths and Facts A discussion of the truth behind some common myths and misperceptions around cyberbullying. Harmful Posting Digital Emotions Stepping Up Stop a Cyberbully An overview of how to identify cyberbullying and a discussion of the personal, emotional and legal consequences of cyberbullying. A discussion of what people can do when cyberbullied (e.g., save the evidence, talk to a trusted adult) as well as tips and strategies for helping a friend who is being cyberbullied. An overview of how to identify the warning signs that a person is being victimized, how to get help from trusted adults, and how to get involved in taking a stand against cyberbullying. A discussion of how to intervene and prevent a friend from cyberbullying. 30 min. 7. The Future of Technology and You: This brief module introduces users to an array of careers in the field of technology and discusses various life paths leading towards such careers. The Future of Technology and You A discussion of technology s impact on various professions, new careers created by technology, and the importance of STEM careers. 15 min.

5 My Digital Life: Gaming Simulation Upon completing all modules, students can apply their learning in a variety of real- life gaming scenarios. While working toward the goal of organizing a concert for their school, students must demonstrate their mastery of digital issues creating a blog, managing a social networking site, solving technology problems, and working to resolve a cyberbullying situation. Simulation Activities: A: Run a Blog for the Concert Users will be tasked with setting up and growing a blog to promote the concert, while completing such complex tasks as adding polling and media, and managing comments posted on the blog. B: Grow a Responsible Social Network Users will set up a social networking site and will be challenged to make safe and responsible choices when setting up their profile, managing their privacy settings, and creating an event for the concert. C: Advise Others on Digital Issues Users will advise others on a number of digital issues. Specifically, users will help a concert sponsor identify and resolve a malware issue, advise a classmate on how to select the appropriate sources for a research project, and convince a classmate to avoid piracy and copyright violations. D: Resolve Cyberbullying Situations Users will be taken through a number of scenarios and asked to successfully resolve cyberbullying situations. Scenarios include helping a victim of cyberbullying to report the incident, helping a friend to avoid cyberbullying, and advising someone on what to do upon receiving an inappropriate text message. 45 min.