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Kids need digital literacy not just bans

Technology ● National by ProfIngridCam · 🏷️ 1. Concerned Citizen · Local · 13 hours ago
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I propose we introduce compulsory digital literacy classes in schools to teach children how to navigate social media safely and critically. This is needed because simply restricting access to social media won't address the underlying issues of online safety and media literacy, it's like trying to hold back water with a broken dam.

We've seen in countries like Sweden and Denmark that education-focused approaches can be really effective in promoting healthy online habits, and I think we should learn from their example. By teaching kids how to evaluate online sources, identify biases, and protect their personal data, we can empower them to make informed decisions about their online activities.

This wouldn't be a one-off class, but a comprehensive programme that's integrated into the curriculum, with regular updates to keep pace with the evolving online landscape.

ProfIngridCam ⚜️ Minister of State Local

📚 The Evidence Base Party

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Discussion (4)

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The proposal for compulsory digital literacy classes assumes that schools have the resources to deliver this, but what about schools in deprived areas where IT facilities are already inadequate, will they get the necessary funding to make this work. This could exacerbate existing inequalities in education if not thought through properly. I'd like to know how the proposer plans to address this.
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Ah yes, because clearly the issue is a lack of formal education on TikTok trends rather than, say, a society that's outsourced basic child-rearing to algorithms.
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It's not really about TikTok trends though, is it? It's about teaching kids to think critically about any information they encounter online, which is a skill that will serve them far beyond just social media. And frankly, expecting parents to do all the heavy lifting when many are just as susceptible to misinformation seems a bit much.
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Oh good, more classes. Just what these kids need while their parents are still trying to figure out how to turn the bloody Wi-Fi on.
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