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 * Reflections on Technology Facilitator / Leader Standard VI – Social, Ethical, Legal, and Human Issues **

ISTE standard VI deals with challenges that are some of the most sensitive and uncertain that an education technologist will encounter. A delicate balancing act between equity, safety, and instruction must be performed. “As daunting as these challenges may be, technologists must embrace them as an opportunity to promote safe, healthy, and equitable education for all students” (Williamson & Redish 2009). During the course of studying and working with this standard I became very aware of how important this topic is and will become more so in the future. By examining the relationship between my existing knowledge and new learning, how I attempted to implement he standard within my internship activities, and how this standard and its issues will affect me as a lifelong learner, I hope bring better clarity and understanding.

Enhancing benefits and avoiding harm are the two focal points of this standard. Learning about Digital Equity, Privacy and Student Records, Technology and Copyright were all interesting and important. However, Online Safety seemed to be of special attention to me. The Telecommunications Act of 1996 or E-rate seems to have improved the subject of Digital Equity. The Family Education rights and Privacy (FERPA) has set guidelines regarding privacy rights in education. Technology and Copyright understanding does need more. In my opinion Online Safety needs much more resources and awareness. Even while school’s E-rate funding is tied to student protection under the Internet Protection Act (CIPA), I fear only reactive measure are in place. Schools, led by educational technologists needed to take a more assertive role regarding Cyber bullying and social networking safety. I feel so strong about the subject of Internet Safety; it became one of my major internship activities that I perused. Being a History teacher and campus technologist (for teachers), I felt the need to place myself in a position that would have direct contact with students. Our campus has an afterschool program funded by a grant that allows for a computer class to be held three hours every week after school. I eagerly accepted the position and began immediate implementation of ISTE Standard VI with 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students. The design of the computer lab was thought out, relevant curriculum developed, and time for homework assistance was scheduled. During the course of the project communication and practical scenarios were taught regarding Online Safety. The response to the after school program was overwhelming. Initially, students were my only participants. Eventually to my surprise, teachers, administrators, and even parents began showing up on a regular basis. This experience will affect me forever. What started off a vision for student Online Safety became a community of learners. One person and one idea can make an impact and change lives.

ISTE standard VI deals with challenges that are some of the most sensitive and vague that an education technologist will encounter. A balancing between equity, safety, and instruction must be performed. During the course of studying and working with this standard I became very aware of how important this topic is and will become more so in the future. By examining the relationship between my existing knowledge and new learning, how I attempted to implement he standard within my internship activities, and how this standard and its issues will affect me as a lifelong learner, I hope bring better clarity and understanding.

Williamson, J. & Redish, T. (2009). //ISTE’s technology facilitation and leadership standards: What every K-12 leader should know and be able to do//. Eugene, OR: International Society for Technology in Education