cybersafety

Q2 Danger! Digital Dilemmas

6. Cyber Safety

Digital Dilemmas can be dangerous.

Challenge: This activity presents digital dilemmas that provide opportunities to practice being a responsible Digital Citizen when online communications go wrong.  

A digital dilemma is a puzzle that refers to a question or problem with an uncertain answer. You will imagine how the scenarios could be handled more thoughtfully and positively. Note that there is no one "right" answer.

Download or make a copy of the 6.Q2 Digital Dilemmas Activity Document.


This activity modifies the Common Sense Education Project Zero with proper attribution. For the web resources used, refer to the Teacher Guide.

The Dilemmas

Check with your teacher about:

  • Working with a partner or on your own.
  • How many or which dilemmas to complete.

Dilemma #1: Digital information posted online spreads fast and can hurt others.

Dilemma #2: Digital Dares can have unintended consequences

Dilemma #3: Forwarded email messages can go wrong.

Dilemma #4: Do you really know who you are chatting with online?


Bonus Create Your Own Dilemma Activity

The Digital Dilemma Activity Document has an additional section at the bottom, "Bonus Dilemma," where you can create your own scenario. Then you can share it with the class or another classmate to generate ideas for a different solution.

MITECS  Michigan Integrated Technology Competencies for Students, and

ISTE Standards for Students

2. Digital Citizen
a. Cultivate and manage their digital identity and reputation and are aware of the permanence of their actions in the digital world
b. Engage in positive, safe, legal and ethical behavior when using technology, including social interactions online or when using networked devices
c. Demonstrate an understanding of and respect for the rights and obligations of using and sharing intellectual property

6. Creative Communicator
a. Choose the appropriate platforms and tools for meeting the desired objectives of their creation or communication
b. Create original works or responsibly repurpose or remix digital resources into new creations