Pictures Courtesy of SMMTC
SINTOK: In an effort to promote responsible digital citizenship among teenagers, a transformative service learning project (under Internet Technology & Services course) titled “I Am a Responsible Digital Citizen” was organized by School of Multimedia Technology & Communication (SMMTC) at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Hosba, recently.
Course lecturer, Prof. Madya Dr. Siti Mahfuzah Sarif said, this impactful event, which involved 40 UUM students and attended by almost 130 enthusiastic students aged 13 to 15, featured a diverse range of activities and games aimed at fostering awareness and understanding of key aspects of digital responsibility.
The service learning project addressed five important messages essential for teenagers in navigating the digital world responsibly. First, “I Find Balance in My Digital Life” focused on combating internet addiction. Students participated in interactive sessions and engaging discussions that shed light on the detrimental effects of excessive screen time and the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between the digital and offline worlds.
The second message, “I Care About Everyone’s Privacy” centered on data privacy. Through thought-provoking activities, students gained insights into the significance of safeguarding personal information and respecting the privacy of others in online interactions. Discussions revolved around concepts such as consent, secure password practices, and the potential risks of sharing sensitive data.
“I Define Who I Am Online” formed the core of the third message emphasizing the impact of one’s digital footprint and digital identity. Participants explored the implications of their online actions, including the permanence of digital content and its potential influence on personal and professional futures. The project encouraged students to craft a positive digital identity by making responsible choices and maintaining a strong sense of integrity online.
Addressing the critical issue of cyberbullying, the fourth message, “I Am Kind and Courageous” aimed to create a safe and inclusive online environment. Interactive games and discussions facilitated an understanding of the consequences of cyberbullying and the importance of empathy, kindness, and standing up against online harassment. Students were encouraged to foster a culture of respect and support within their digital communities.
Lastly, the fifth message, “I Am Critical and Creative Creator” explored digital ethics and copyright issues through a digital poster online competition. Participants delved into the realm of content creation, understanding the significance of giving credit to original creators and respecting intellectual property rights. Through participating in the competition, students developed their critical thinking and creativity skills while being mindful of ethical considerations in the digital realm.
The collaborative effort of SMMTC and SMK Hosba demonstrated their commitment to empowering teenagers with the necessary skills and knowledge to become responsible digital citizens. By instilling the core principles of balance, privacy, identity, kindness, and ethical creativity, this service-learning project contributes to creating a positive and safer digital environment for all.
