In today’s digital world, it’s essential for high school students to be aware of the importance of responsible online communication. This blog post will discuss Cyber Skills for Online Messaging, a no-prep activity, discussion questions, and related skills for high school students. These skills are crucial for ensuring a safe and respectful online environment for everyone involved.
Introduction
Talking to friends online is not only fun but also a significant responsibility. High school students need to be safe and smart about who they talk to and what they say. This is known as using our Cyber Skills. By applying the same communication skills we use in real life, we can create a positive and enjoyable online experience for everyone. Our Cyber Skills for Online Messaging include understanding the appropriate time and place for messaging or texting, thinking before speaking, waiting for a response, and sharing the conversation equally.
No-Prep Activity: Texting Scenarios
This activity requires no preparation or materials from the educator. Begin by dividing students into pairs. Have each pair create a texting scenario in which one person forgets to use their Cyber Skills. After they have created their scenario, ask them to rewrite the conversation, this time incorporating proper Cyber Skills. Finally, have each pair share their before and after scenarios with the class, discussing the differences and the impact of using Cyber Skills.
Discussion Questions
- Why is it important to think before you send a message online?
- How can you ensure that a conversation is shared equally between both participants?
- What are some strategies for remaining respectful and considerate when messaging someone who is busy or unavailable?
- How can using Cyber Skills help prevent misunderstandings and conflicts in online communication?
- What are some potential consequences of not using Cyber Skills when communicating online?
Related Skills
Alongside Cyber Skills for Online Messaging, there are several other relevant skills for high school students to develop. These include:
- Digital Citizenship: Understanding the rights and responsibilities of being a responsible digital citizen, including online safety, privacy, and the ethical use of information.
- Empathy: Being able to put oneself in another person’s shoes and understand their feelings, especially when communicating online.
- Active Listening: Paying close attention to what others are saying, asking clarifying questions, and responding thoughtfully in both online and offline conversations.
- Conflict Resolution: Developing the ability to address and resolve conflicts in a respectful and constructive manner, including those that arise in online communication.
Next Steps
Cyber Skills for Online Messaging is just one of many essential skills for high school students to develop. To help your students grow in their social-emotional learning, sign up for free samples of the discussed skill and others at Everyday Speech. These resources will provide valuable tools and activities to further enhance your students’ communication and online safety abilities.
