Safe Schools

Online Respect and Responsibility

What do students think about respect and responsibility in the world of technology? Education Minister Kathleen Wynne brought students together in May 2007 to start finding out. The students shared their experiences and perspectives, and suggested solutions. A summary of that discussion is published in the Get Connected, Get in the Know: Online Respect and Responsibility:

• Colour (PDF, 405 KB)
• Black and White (PDF, 240 KB)
• Text Version (12 KB)

What Was The Purpose Of The Forum?

This first-ever student forum was held to better understand how students are using the Internet, cell phones and other technologies.

Click on the video to hear comments from students, the Minister of Education Kathleen Wynne and Brant MPP Dave Levac.

What Did We Hear?

The students attending the forum believed that online tools and other technologies can be very helpful in their learning and have a positive impact in their daily lives. They also felt that technology must be embraced by the education system. Cyber-bullying was raised as a downside by some students. However, solutions were also proposed including:

• strengthening student leadership
• improving awareness about technology and online activity among the school community, including students, educators and parents
• continuing efforts by schools and government to engage students
• finding different approaches to address inappropriate use.

What Are The Next Steps?

A second forum is being planned for the spring of 2008.

Comments?

The government encourages students to email their comments to info@edu.gov.on.ca.