DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP IN K-12: INTERNATIONAL MODELS AND LESSONS FOR OMAN

Abstract: As the world becomes more and more digital, global societies are struggling for ways to teach students how to be responsible digital citizens. Digital Citizenship (DC) encompasses the responsible use of technology including privacy, online safety, and ethical behavior. This paper offers a comparative analysis of the implementation of DC education in six countries; Australia, South Korea, the U.S., Finland, Estonia, and Qatar. It aims to derive lessons and insights for Oman, without a formal DC curriculum. It sheds light on the key components of DC curriculum implementation in these countries. Findings suggest that early inclusion of the DC curriculum, cross-cultural curriculum, privacy consideration, parental engagement, and teacher training are key components for a successful implementation of the DC curriculum. Recommendations for Oman include starting DC education from early Ages, setting standards for its implementation, involving parents, and training teachers, updating the curriculum, empowering students, and balancing between the global best practices and the Omani identity.