Journal 8 NETS IV-V

Bogacz, R., & Gordillo, M.G. (2011). Should Schools Be Held Responsible For Cyberbullying?. Learning and Leading with Technology, 38(6), 6-7.

The main concern of this article is should schools be held responsible for cyberbullying? Renee Bogacz agrees that schools are accountable for any tormenting that occurs on school grounds including cyberbullying. It is clear that it greatly effects the school environment; therefore teachers and administrators need to be aware of this issue. On the other hand, Miguel Gordillo believes that schools clearly cannot be held responsible for cyberbullying, considering the role of schools in our society. To prevent cyberbullying from happening in school, it is the guardian’s responsibility to teach their children that it is not tolerated. He mentions, “We need to remember that parents are the first educators of their children.” The schools power is limited because parents are the main mentors of the children. Schools need to institute communication with parents to supply resources for the students and keep them educated on certain topics. We need to build a bond between the parents and administrators of these institutions to guarantee a safe and violence free environment. A poll was taken to calculate the percentage of people who think schools should be held responsible for cyberbullying, and 70% said no.  I believe that it isn’t the schools responsibility, but the teachers and administration need to inform the students on the topic to prevent cyberbullying occurring on campus. Schools can’t be held accountable for misconduct outside school grounds; as a result parents need to be aware of their children’s use of internet and mobile devices.

Q: What can educators do to prevent cyberbullying from happening in school?

A: First off, educators need to teach the consequences and concerns of cyberbullying and explain that it is hurtful and sometimes even destructive. They can create a community outreach program to educate those beyond the school walls to the dangers of cyberbulling. Lastly, educators need to teach students how to use technology to block communication with cyberbullies.

Q:  What can students do to avoid involvement with cyberbullying?

A: To avoid involvement with cyberbullying, students can’t believe everything they read. One can’t be sure whom they are communicating with behind the computer. The internet can be a very dangerous place and children need to recognize the consequences that can occur. Students should never open messages from strangers. They need to delete the message immediately and inform an adult.  Students should avoid posting personal information about themselves online. This is how cyberbullying can arise and progressively get worse.