Topic 2 - Digital Footprint

A Digital Footprint is the trail of our activities online. Every picture posted, message sent, and/or Google search leaves a digital trail. Students need to understand how their Digital Footprint contributes to their Digital Life in both positive and negative ways. Students should be aware of what information they share publicly, what sites they visit, links they click, and how their information is collected when they download apps/extensions. Digital Footprint also focuses on a student’s identity, reputation, and the influence of stereotyping in our world and how they can affect many students’ perceptions of themselves and others. Many students create their own unique identities on social media platforms so it is important for students to be able to understand the impact and perception of their posts and think critically about the online identities they are creating. A student's Digital Footprint stays with them for a long time. By showing students how to contribute to a positive digital reputation for themselves and others, they can present themselves online and learn the pros and cons of their Digital Footprint.