Hawaii Senate Bill SCR28

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/22
• Refer: 3/11/22
• Report Pass: 3/30/22
• Engrossed: 3/31/22
• Refer: 4/4/22
• Report Pass: 4/19/22
• Passed: 4/20/22

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Education To Establish Programs And Educational Opportunities To Increase Media Literacy And Promote Digital Citizenship.

Impact

If enacted, SCR28 would lead to a systematic integration of media literacy and digital citizenship into the educational curriculum across Hawaii. This would require the Department of Education to develop resources, best practices, and instructional models that cater to various grade levels. The expected outcome is a generation of students who not only understand digital platforms but also can engage with them in a balanced, informed, and responsible manner, effectively preparing them for the challenges of the modern digital landscape.

Summary

SCR28 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution from the Thirty-First Legislature of Hawaii, which requests the Department of Education to establish programs and educational opportunities aimed at increasing media literacy and promoting digital citizenship among students from kindergarten through grade twelve. The resolution emphasizes the importance of equipping students with the necessary skills to navigate the increasingly digital world, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has accelerated the reliance on digital devices for learning, communication, and entertainment. The intention is to ensure students have the competence to analyze and evaluate media content effectively, create their messages, and engage responsibly in the digital space.

Contention

While the resolution appears to be broadly supportive of enhancing student skills, there are underlying concerns regarding the implementation of such programs. Critics may argue about the resource allocation and the effectiveness of these initiatives in translating into tangible outcomes for students. Additionally, the comprehensive nature of digital citizenship encompasses issues beyond technical skills, including ethical considerations and the social responsibilities of using technology, which may require careful deliberation during the program's establishment.