Technology has become an important tool in the daily lives of students, who access the Internet to learn, socialize and entertain themselves. However, these tools are not always used responsibly and ethically, making the promotion of digital ethics in schools crucial. Fostering responsible digital citizenship involves helping students understand how to behave ethically in virtual environments, respecting others and following the basic principles of online coexistence. In this article, we explore the main ethical challenges of using technology in the classrooms and after school.

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Protection of the Online Privacy 
One of the most important aspects of digital ethics is the protection of privacy. In fact, students' personal data, such as their name, age, address or photos, can be used in inappropriate ways if not handled carefully. Although online platforms often ask for permissions to access this information, it is not always easy for younger users to understand the risks associated with sharing this data. 
In the face of such a problem, the digital ethic underscores the importance of users, including students, being aware of the risks and knowing how to protect their privacy online. This includes creating secure passwords, understanding terms of service, and carefully selecting what information is shared online.

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Cyberbullying 
Cyberbullying is one of the biggest ethical issues in the digital environment. It refers to any harmful or harassing behavior that takes place through digital platforms, such as social networks or messaging apps. Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying can occur 24 hours a day and can be seen by a much larger audience. 
Addressing this issue, digital citizenship demands that users understand that behind every profile and every comment there is a real person, with feelings and rights that must be respected. Therefore, students must be aware that online behavior has real consequences, and that the damage caused by cyberbullying can be profound. Having mutual respect, being responsible and having self-control are key values for a healthy coexistence in the digital world.

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Fake News and Disinformation 

Due to the abundance of information available online, one of the biggest ethical challenges is the spread of disinformation and fake news. These disinformation and misinformation can affect decision making, manipulate opinions and cause confusion. In addition, the rapid spread of unverified information is a common phenomenon on social networks, where many users share content without analyzing its veracity.

Therefore, digital ethics promote the responsibility of users to verify information before sharing it, which is especially important for students, who are at a key stage of cognitive development. Hence, developing critical thinking skills and being able to distinguish between reliable and unreliable sources is critical to combating misinformation. 

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The Digital Footprint 

Every online interaction leaves a digital footprint, which can affect students' lives beyond school. Posts, photos or comments shared online can be permanent, even if they are later deleted. This "digital footprint" can impact future opportunities, such as college admissions or jobs. 

Hence, being aware of the implications of these actions is essential to build a strong digital citizenship. Every time students interact in the digital world, they are building a reputation that can have both positive and negative consequences in the future. Consequently, digital ethics teaches them to be responsible with what they share and to make informed decisions about their online presence. 

Conclusion

Today, digital ethics are a fundamental part of digital citizenship. In school education, it is crucial that students understand the ethical principles that should guide their online behavior, from protecting their privacy to respecting others and limiting the information they share. As technology continues to develop, students must be equipped not only with technical skills, but also with a solid understanding of how to navigate the digital world ethically and responsibly. 

References

1. Olcott, D., Xavier Carrera Farran, Esther, E., & Juan González Martínez. (2015). Ética y Educación en la era digital: perspectivas globales y estrategias para la transformación local en Cataluña. RUSC. Universities and Knowledge Society Journal, 12(2), 59–72. https://rusc.uoc.edu/rusc/es/index.php/rusc/article/view/v12n2-olcott-carrera-gallardo-gonzalez/2615.html  

2. ‌Olga Fernández Castro. (2023, December 5). El papel de la tecnología para una educación con ética - Tendencias e innovación educativa. Tendencias E Innovación Educativa. https://blogs.uoc.edu/elearning-innovation-center/es/el-papel-de-la-tecnologia-para-una-educacion-con-etica/