C.I.P.A. A guide to teaching and learning digital citizenship and online safety

Module 4: Your Teacher's Role - Active Monitoring This section explains that teachers practice active monitoring to maintain a safe learning environment, not to spy. Because it is impossible for a teacher to physically see every device screen in a classroom at once, schools may use technology like screen viewing software to help teachers ensure students are safe and on-task.

Module 3: Recognizing Modern Online Threats This section warns that internet filters cannot stop every danger and that students are the "most important line of defense" against specific threats. It details three major risks:• Phishing: Fake emails or websites designed to steal passwords or sensitive info.• Internal Misuse: Threats coming from inside the school, such as a staff member accidentally leaking data or a student intentionally bypassing the web filter.• Cyberbullying: Using school tools like email or shared docs to harass others.

Module 1: The Rules of the Road - Understanding CIPA This section explains that the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) is a federal law serving as a safety framework for schools. To receive internet funding, schools must follow four core requirements: establishing an internet safety policy, using web filters to block harmful content, holding public meetings regarding these policies, and educating students about appropriate online behavior. It also outlines the roles of the IT department (managing technical tools) and teachers (monitoring and teaching students).

Module 2: Your Most Important Job - Being a Good Digital Citizen This part focuses on the student's responsibility to act ethically and responsibly online. It highlights three key areas:• Cyberbullying: Strictly prohibited and must be reported to administrators.• Appropriate Behavior: Students must maintain a respectful, academic tone because online posts create a permanent "digital footprint". Protecting Personal Information: Students are warned never to share sensitive data—such as full names, addresses, photos, or geolocation—without permission.