In this episode of the Root & STEM podcast, Cassidy Swanston and Abbey Ramdeo from Actua discuss their roles in teaching science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) across Canada. They delve into the importance of digital citizenship and combatting misinformation. Cassidy dispels common misconceptions about digital safety, while Abbey shares insights on building critical digital skills. Both stress the significance of ethical behaviour and critical thinking in navigating the digital world. The conversation extends to discuss strategies for combating cyberbullying and the evolving impact of AI on digital citizenship. The episode concludes with practical advice for parents and educators on fostering safe digital habits.

00:00 Introduction and Team Roles

00:46 Defining Digital Citizenship

01:41 Common Misconceptions About Digital Citizenship

03:53 Teaching Soft Skills in Digital Citizenship

06:12 Spotting Fake News and Misinformation

08:31 AI's Impact on Digital Citizenship

10:51 Combating Cyberbullying and Online Harassment

14:14 Digital Literacy vs. Digital Citizenship

16:00 Advice for Parents on Digital Safety

18:43 Understanding Digital Footprint

20:25 Key Takeaways and Resources

Vivian Lee, Director of Education and Strategy for the Open Digital Literacy and Access Network (ODLAN), discusses the organization's mission to support underserved LGBTQIA+ communities with digital literacy and safety. Vivian shares insights on what digital literacy entails, its critical components, and why it matters. She elaborates on digital citizenship and its broader implications, including online safety, parental guidance, and the impacts of AI. Discussing misconceptions and ethical concerns, Vivian emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, collective responsibility, and the potential future of AI and digital sovereignty. ODLAN provides valuable resources, training, and reports to bolster community awareness and skills in navigating digital spaces.

00:00 Introduction to Vivian Lee

00:35 Origins and Mission of ODLAN

02:25 Defining Digital Literacy and Citizenship

04:45 Misconceptions About Digital Citizenship

07:07 Online Safety for Children

11:55 Ethical Concerns and Future of AI

21:37 Resources and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Root & STEM, Beth, a classroom teacher from Cambridge Bay, NU, Beth Sampson shares her journey from Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, to becoming a senior high math and science specialist in a remote Nunavut community. Beth discusses her academic background, the challenges and opportunities of digital citizenship, and her pursuit of a master's degree in Creativity, Sustainability, and Innovation through Cape Breton University. Beth explains her experiences with digital education during the school year 2021-2022, including her involvement in creating resources like the Digitally Nunavut Ed website, and addresses the unique aspects of digital citizenship within the context of Nunavut's evolving technological landscape. She highlights the importance of modeling good digital citizenship and collaborating with Inuit cultural resources to engage students. Beth also offers insights into the special challenges students and teachers face regarding technology access and safety online, emphasizing the importance of cultural and community context in digital education.

00:00 Introduction and Background

01:19 Journey into Digital Citizenship

05:14 Defining Digital Citizenship

10:10 Digital Citizenship in Nunavut

20:32 Challenges and Solutions in Digital Citizenship

37:13 Resources and Recommendations

44:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts