What's Happening?
Cyber.org, a nonprofit focused on cybersecurity and digital literacy education, is redefining digital readiness by emphasizing ethics and unplugged learning. The organization argues that digital readiness should not be measured by the amount of screen
time but by the quality of learning and ethical understanding imparted to students. This approach aims to mitigate concerns about excessive screen time and reliance on technology by focusing on critical thinking and ethical use of technology. Cyber.org provides no-cost curriculum resources and professional development for educators, promoting unplugged or blended instruction to help students understand technology, digital citizenship, and cybersecurity without over-reliance on devices. The organization also highlights the importance of teaching students to critically evaluate information, especially as AI tools become more accessible.
Why It's Important?
The shift towards ethics and unplugged learning in digital readiness is significant as it addresses growing concerns about the impact of technology on students' attention spans and reliance on screens. By focusing on critical thinking and ethical use, Cyber.org aims to prepare students for a future where technology and AI play a significant role, ensuring they can discern factual information and use technology responsibly. This approach also supports educators by providing resources and training to teach technology with purpose and impact, potentially leading to more meaningful learning experiences and better-prepared students for the digital age.
