Digitize responsibly

According to Department of Education’s (DepEd) Data Privacy Notice, the data and information they collected are protected and deemed confidential and private under the Data Privacy Act of 2012 (Republic Act No. 10173).

Digital Citizenship is a concept which helps teachers, technology leaders and parents to understand what students/children/technology users should know to use technology appropriately. Many parents and learners are excited and proud of their accomplishments.

DepEd considers such information as “highly classified,” meaning it should not be posted on social media “under any circumstances”. DepEd warns that posting of photos or screenshots of documents containing sensitive information on social media is prohibited.

Digital Citizenship is more than just a teaching tool; it is a way to prepare students/technology users for a society full of technology. Digital citizenship is the continuously developing norms of appropriate, responsible, and empowered technology use.

Sometimes parents and learners couldn’t help but share their achievements on social media. While it’s normal to post stories of success, posting photos of diplomas and Certificates are discouraged. Posting important information online might subject the learner, parents or even schools to possible dangers and problems.

While it may seem tempting to post these documents on social media as rewards of their success, it’s still important to prioritize the welfare and safety of learners. Too often we are seeing students as well as adults misusing and abusing technology but not sure what to do. The issue is more than what the users do not know but what is considered appropriate technology usage. ###