Pupil instruction: digital citizenship and media literacy.
The bill is set to amend the Education Code by adding Section 51206.5. This section outlines the definition and importance of digital citizenship and media literacy, emphasizing that these skills are essential for success in the 21st century. By mandating instructional strategies across grades 1 to 12, it seeks to instill knowledge about safe and responsible media use, thereby addressing contemporary issues such as online privacy, digital footprints, and cyberbullying among school-age children.
Senate Bill 947, introduced by Senator Jackson, aims to enhance the instruction of digital citizenship and media literacy within California's public school system. It requires the Superintendent of Public Instruction, in consultation with the State Board of Education, to develop best practices and recommendations for teaching these subjects by January 1, 2021. The legislation reflects a growing recognition of technology's pervasive role in students' lives and the need for educational frameworks that equip them to navigate the digital landscape responsibly.
The sentiment around SB 947 appears largely positive, with strong support from educational advocates and stakeholders who view it as a necessary step forward in modernizing the curriculum to meet the demands of a technology-driven society. However, there are nuances in opinions regarding the implementation, as some local educators express concerns about resource allocation and the effectiveness of top-down mandates without appropriate support.
One notable point of contention includes the composition and function of the proposed advisory committee that is tasked with developing the best practices. Critics worry that without diverse representation, particularly from frontline educators, the recommendations may overlook practical classroom challenges. Additionally, the requirement for committee members to serve without compensation may limit participation from key stakeholders who have the necessary expertise to inform the guidelines.