ISTE Standard 4: Citizenship

The fourth NETS standard is written in regard to the teacher's responsibility to model ethical behavior and equality in the classroom. In a society where identity theft and email scams are rampant, I feel it is very important to teach our students how to safely and ethically use the technology available to us. It begins with the teacher modeling appropriate behavior. This means giving credit to the website where you found that "awesome" PowerPoint already put together and ready to use in your classroom. In my Ap Biology class, I use many Word documents that have been borrowed from or adapted from other, more experienced teachers. While I try to always give credit to those sources and explain that the material is not my own, sometimes it is easy to forget that the "free" info I find on the web was the hard work and effort of another. It is our duty as teachers to provide our students with new ways of thinking about ethics and etiquette that they may not otherwise learn from their peers.
Another issue addressed in this standard is providing equal access to technology for all students and addressing different learning styles and needs. We should definite seek to enhance our student's knowledge but be aware that many of our students do not have internet access or even computer access at home. By allowing for some "in class" preparation and hands on time, we are encouraging and providing opportunities for students who otherwise do not have opportunity to learn new skills or get work done.