Texting, sharing photos and videos online, social networking and using other new technologies is not just for children and teenagers; it may well be an important part of your life too.
Embracing technology at home and in the classroom has many benefits but, as a teacher or other member of the school workforce, you also need to consider how you protect your privacy and your reputation, stay safe, and keep your work and personal life separate.
Your students might come across personal information that you have posted on your Facebook profile or Twitter updates, try to include you in their own online social network, or get hold of your mobile number, for example.
You might find yourself the subject of negative online comments - about your teaching ability or about what they think of you as a person - that could have an impact on your professional reputation.
Or you could be the victim of “cyberbullying”, where texts, social networking profiles or other new technologies are used to undermine, embarrass or intimidate you.
Did you know?
Nearly half (46%) of teachers in a survey for Becta reported having had a negative experience caused by students using Web 2.0 technologies (Source: Becta E-Safety and Web 2.0 Report, September 2008)
Irresponsible use of new technologies - by you, your students or others - can affect your reputation, your self-esteem, your health and, in some cases, your career progression. So it’s crucial that you understand how to maintain your professional boundaries and deal with inappropriate behaviour on the internet, mobiles and other devices.
This section of Teachtoday aims to answer some of the questions you might have and to complement government guidance, such as the DCSF’s ‘Cyberbullying: Supporting School Staff’ report, and your own school’s ICT, e-safety and anti-bullying policies.
If you’re looking for advice about how to help your students to use new technologies safely and responsibly, go to the Student Advice section of Teachtoday.