Cyberbullying is defined as "an aggressive behavior that involves unwanted, negative actions; involves a pattern of behavior repeated over time; involves an imbalance of power and strength." (Boyd) Danah Boyd's article co-authored with Alice Marwick stated that "adult rhetoric is going in the wrong direction and failing to realize why it is counterproductive." I agree with this statement. I was bullied when I was a kid and any time I told an adult about it, one believed me and thought we were "playing games" when it was serious business. Luckily, the bullying ended for me but I never forgot that adults never tried to help me, even when I asked. I can't imagine what it could have been like for kids like Jamie Rodemeyer who were tormented because they were different and couldn't see a way out of the torment and bullying. As a librarian, I want to be able to be able to educate students about internet safety and preventing cyberbullying. For example, I want to explain to students how to avoid cyberbullies by blocking them and their hurtful content. I want students to know how to document the bullying so that their oppressors will be held accountable. Schools should have support networks to let these victims know that they are capable of overcoming the bullying. Teachers (library teachers included) need to empower students who are being bullied so they don't feel defeated emotionally, mentally, etc. Students should have a place to go when they are feeling bullied and can seek help. Kids like Jamie should not have to suffer in silence.
There are many educational resources out there about cyberbullying.
Cyber Smart Curriculum
Curriculum Connection Cyberbullying
Videos on Cyberbullying and More (One of my colleagues-Julianne-suggested this site to me recently.)
More Cyberbullying Videos
Boyd, D., & Marwick, A. (2011). Why Cyberbullying Rhetoric Misses the Mark: Bullying as True Drama.The New York Times, . Retrieved from http://www.nytimes.com/2011/09/23/opinion/why-cyberbullying-rhetoric-misses-the-mark.html?_r=2
When adults don't believe, it can be devastating. As you were sharing your ideas for what you will do as a school librarian, I had a thought about collaborating with the school counselor. Perhaps, co-creating some materials would be good. What do you think?
ReplyDeleteShannon what a great post. I think sharing our own story can be an effective tool in guiding students. I wonder how many students feel like this is new problem, especially in the context of the internet. It's important for us to let them know we do get it even if the terminology and methods may have changed.
ReplyDeleteI like that idea Marilyn, I never thought of that!
ReplyDeleteSarah- I agree, a lot of students feel as if they are the only one who has ever felt that way or don't know who to turn to and I definitely want to reach out to them.
Great sources Shannon! Spreading awareness is really key.
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