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, U.S., Finland, Estonia and Qatar. It aims to derive lessons and insights for Oman, a country that has no formal DC curriculum yet. It sheds light on the key components of DC curriculum implementation in these countries. Findings suggest that early inclusion of DC curriculum, cross-curricular curriculum, privacy consideration, parental engagement and teacher training are key components for a successful implementation of DC curriculum. Recommendations for Oman include starting DC education from early Ages, setting standards for its implementation, involving parents, training teachers, updating curriculum, empowering students, and balancing between the global best practices and the Omani identity