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There’s no getting around the fact that the internet has become an integral part of our daily lives—including the lives of students. Kids and teens now use various online products and platforms for school, for fun, and for socializing. While the internet offers countless benefits, it also poses a significant risk to young people. Cyberbullying, online harassment, identity theft, and exposure to inappropriate content are just a few of the potential dangers that students may encounter online.
That’s why it’s essential that each school develops educational programming on internet safety for students. Yet this is an excellent time and subject for “keeping it real” with some less formal teaching formats, which is why a school assembly on cyber safety may just be the most effective one. Here’s why your school should consider hosting a cyber safety assembly presenter.
A Captive Audience
One of the main benefits of an assembly presentation is that it provides a captive audience. Unlike in a classroom where students may be distracted or not fully engaged, during an assembly, they are typically more attentive and focused. By taking advantage of this captive audience, schools can effectively convey the importance of cyber safety. This can be particularly important for students who may not have access to this information outside of school.
Expert Speakers
Another advantage of assembly presentations is that schools can bring in expert speakers to deliver the message. These speakers can be professionals from law enforcement, companies that specialize in online safety, or nonprofit organizations. The speakers can share their expertise and experience not only on the subject matter, but on delivery methods that will most effectively help students understand the real-world consequences of unsafe online behavior. This can make the message more impactful and engaging for students.
Multimedia Approach
Assembly presentations can also incorporate a multimedia approach to engage students. Speakers can use videos, interactive games, and other multimedia elements to help students understand complex concepts and illustrate the importance of online safety. Changing up the presentation format means students are more likely to remember the message and apply it to their daily lives.
Community Building
Assemblies provide an opportunity for the school community to come together and have shared learning experiences about the importance of cyber safety. By including students, teachers, and parents in the assembly, schools can create a culture of online safety that extends beyond the classroom. This community approach can be more effective in changing behavior than simply presenting information in a classroom setting.
Large Scale Impact
Assemblies can also have a large-scale impact on the school community. By addressing the entire student body, schools can ensure that all students receive the message at once, saving teachers’ time and resources for other subjects. Additionally, assemblies can provide a platform for students to share their own experiences and perspectives on cyber safety, which can foster a sense of community and multidirectional learning.
Teach Kids Safe Tech Use With Net Positive
The mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Utah County is to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens and leaders. We accomplish this by providing evidence-based programs with a focus on those that improve academic engagement, build character, and improve healthy behaviors.
Our Net Positive Program educates K-12 students about digital safety, health, citizenship, and leadership. After participating in our program, students are 97% better prepared to face internet dangers. Contact us to learn more and ask your school to schedule a Net Positive Presentation today!
References
“Cybersecurity in Education: What Teachers, Parents and Students Should Know.” Berkeley Boot Camps, 3 Sept. 2020, bootcamp.berkeley.edu/blog/cybersecurity-in-education-what-teachers-parents-and-students-should-know/.
Trotman, Melisha. “Why Have Assemblies?” British School, 7 July 2022, www.british-school.org/why-have-assemblies/.