CYBER SAFETY
WHAT IS CYBERBULLYING & ABUSE?
Cyberbullying is the repeated use of digital communication tools, such as social media, messaging apps, or gaming platforms, to harm, intimidate, or humiliate others. For students, it can manifest as mean comments, exclusion, spreading rumors, or harassment. Teaching students about cyberbullying and abuse helps them recognise harmful behaviours, respond effectively, and create a positive digital environment.
Key Concepts
Direct and Indirect Cyberbullying: Includes overt actions like abusive messages and covert tactics like exclusion or spreading rumours.
Power Imbalance: Recognising how unequal dynamics in online spaces can contribute to bullying behaviours.
Bystander and Upstander Roles: Understanding the impact of standing by versus taking action to stop cyberbullying.
Mental Health Impact: Highlighting the emotional toll, such as anxiety, depression, or isolation, on those involved.
TEACHING RATIONALE
Why This Matters
Cyberbullying and online abuse affect young people globally, impacting their mental health, self-esteem, and academic performance. By teaching students to recognise, prevent, and address cyberbullying, we equip them with the tools to create safer, more supportive online communities.
HOW TO TEACH
Guiding Principles at a Glance
Define and Recognise Help students identify what cyberbullying looks like, including subtle forms like exclusion or trolling. | Practice Empathy Encourage students to consider how their words and actions affect others online. |
Promote Upstander Behaviours Teach students how to safely support victims by reporting, intervening, or offering help. | Encourage Help-Seeking Normalise reaching out to trusted adults or using reporting tools to address cyberbullying. |
Set Boundaries Empower students to block, report, or disengage from harmful interactions online. | Build Resilience Provide tools to manage the emotional impact of cyberbullying, fostering self-esteem and mental health. |
CURRICULUM PLANNING
Integrating Cyberbullying & Abuse Lessons Into Your Classroom
Embed in SEL Lessons: Use discussions and activities to teach kindness, conflict resolution, and emotional intelligence.
Incorporate Role-Play: Practice responding to cyberbullying scenarios as a victim, bystander, or upstander.
Discuss Real-Life Cases: Analyse age-appropriate examples to illustrate the impact of cyberbullying and how it can be addressed.
Use Media Literacy: Teach students to recognise and report harmful content while promoting positive online engagement.
Create Class Guidelines: Establish and reinforce rules for respectful behaviour in digital group activities.
Cross-Age Activities: Have older students mentor younger peers on recognizing and preventing cyberbullying.
