Where does this program fit?

Digital Technologies: 

• Students learn about the ethical, safe, and responsible use of digital systems,      including cybersecurity, privacy, and data protection. This area provides      opportunities for students to express their understanding and contribute to discussions on digital citizenship.
• Students can be involved in creating guidelines, resources, and initiatives for safe online practices, allowing them to take an active role in shaping the digital culture of their school.

Health and Physical Education (HPE): 

• The curriculum addresses personal safety, including safe online communication and cyberbullying. It encourages students to engage in discussions and activities that promote their wellbeing in digital environments.
• Students can share their experiences and perspectives on online safety, helping to      develop relevant strategies and support systems within the school community.

Personal and Social Capability: 

• This capability focuses on managing relationships and making responsible      decisions, including online interactions. Students learn to recognize and respond to online risks.
• Students are encouraged to express their ideas and opinions, participate in      decision-making, and contribute to creating a respectful and inclusive  online environment.

Critical and Creative Thinking: 

• Students critically evaluate digital content and the impact of their online behaviour.      They learn to assess the credibility of online sources and the ethical implications of their digital actions.
• Students can lead projects and discussions that explore online ethics and digital      literacy, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility.

Ethical Capability: 

• This area explores ethical issues related to digital technologies, such as privacy, online behaviour, and the ethical use of information.
• Students can engage in debates and create campaigns that promote ethical online behaviour and digital citizenship within their school.

ICT (Information and Communication Technology) Capability: 

• Embedded across various subjects, this capability includes understanding how to protect personal information and recognising cyber threats.
• Students can participate in developing ICT policies and practices that enhance online safety, ensuring their voices are heard in the creation of a secure digital environment.

By incorporating student voice and cyber safety education into these areas, the program ensures that students not only learn about safe online practices but also actively participate in shaping a positive digital culture within their school community.

    How Understanding Digital Platforms Supports Student Wellbeing 

• Informed Decision-Making: Understanding the purpose and features of these platforms helps students make better choices about how they spend their time online, leading to healthier digital habits.
• Safety and Privacy: By learning about the potential risks and privacy concerns associated with these platforms, students can take steps to protect themselves and their personal information, reducing anxiety and stress.
• Positive Engagement: Knowing how to use these platforms responsibly allows students to engage positively with others, fostering respectful and supportive online communities that enhance their social wellbeing.
• Critical Thinking: Exploring the challenges and downsides of digital tools encourages critical thinking and helps students recognize and avoid harmful content or behaviours, contributing to their mental and emotional health.
• Balancing Enjoyment and Responsibilities: Understanding the impact of these platforms on their lives helps students find a balance between screen time and other important activities, promoting overall wellbeing.
• Understanding the algorithms: Awareness of the ways that social media in particular uses technologies to target, keep you online or presents certain types of content. 
• Empowerment and Confidence: Gaining digital literacy skills empowers students to navigate the digital world confidently, reducing feelings of frustration or helplessness and boosting their self-esteem.

In today's digital age, cybersafety is crucial for students' wellbeing and safety. Understanding how to navigate and communicate online responsibly is an essential skill. The power of student voice plays a significant role in promoting a safe and respectful online environment.

The Importance of Cybersafety:

Wellbeing and Safety: Helping students understand the risks and benefits of online interactions is vital for their mental and emotional health.

• Informed Use: Educating students about privacy, cyberbullying, and data protection empowers them to make safer choices online.
• Critical Thinking: Teaching students to critically evaluate online content helps them become discerning consumers of digital information.

Harnessing Student Voice:

• Engagement: When students actively participate in discussions about cybersafety, they are more likely to internalise the concepts and act responsibly.
• Leadership: Students can lead initiatives, create resources, and educate their peers, fostering a culture of shared responsibility and respect.
• Community Impact: By voicing their experiences and insights, students can influence the broader school community, including parents and teachers, promoting a cohesive approach to cybersafe.