An online ‘schoolyard’
In 2024, pupils and students are digital natives: they have grown up with online technology. Their ‘schoolyard’ has expanded to include countless platforms such as Instagram, TikTok and WhatsApp. What happens in this ‘online schoolyard’ is just as likely to be brought into the classroom ‘offline’ the next day. A nasty comment on Instagram or a malicious rumour in a group chat can have a major impact on the atmosphere in the classroom. And you may end up with an emotionally damaged pupil on your hands.
Schools (and parents!) can certainly help pupils and students behave safely and sociably on social media. But this is not easy. I’ll start with the list of challenges.
The challenges
Certain mechanisms on social media platforms make people quite easily start behaving unkindly, mean that the harm caused by this behaviour can be extensive, and make it difficult to undo what has been done. Moreover, social media never stand still; they are almost impossible to escape, anywhere or at any time.
One reason people hurt each other so easily online is that they are not in direct, physical contact with one another. You cannot see in someone’s eyes what effect the words you type are having. As a result, there is no natural social restraint on online behaviour. Many people who send negative messages do not really feel that they are directing their comments at an actual person. Unfortunately, the consequences are very real.
The uncontrollability of social media often makes the impact of negative messages even greater. Once something has been posted, it usually cannot disappear completely. If, for example, it concerns persistent online rumours or shaming, it can continue to have an enormous impact on the person mentioned. But because there are few clear online codes of conduct, it is not easy for schools and parents to enforce boundaries regarding inappropriate behaviour.
What you can do about it after all
Although these mechanisms may sometimes seem uncontrollable, they also highlight the need for education about social media at school. Parents and teachers must now work together to positively influence the online behaviour of the youngest generation. Young people need to learn how to interact responsibly and respectfully with one another and with social media. By paying attention to social safety online, you are also helping to prevent inappropriate online behaviour.
1 Proactively promote online empathy and ethics
It is important that pupils and students, as well as teachers and parents, are aware of the impact of their own online behaviour. Organise workshops and information sessions to increase this awareness. Take a proactive role by regularly talking to pupils about their experiences with social media. And encourage your pupils or students to develop positive online behaviour.
2 Set clear boundaries for inappropriate online behaviour
Precisely because there are no generally applicable online codes of conduct, it is important for you as a school to draw a line regarding certain online behaviour and thereby establish the standard for what crosses the line. Even, or especially, when the perpetrators are unknown, it is important to state that these unknown individuals have crossed the boundaries of acceptable behaviour.
3 Observe behavioural rules online as well
Social media are an extension of the physical world. Establish clear rules together with the class about the use of social media and integrate them into the anti-bullying policy.
4 Provide support
Ensure a safe environment where pupils who are victims of online bullying feel supported; a place where they know they can turn for help. Consider internal structures such as the anti-bullying coordinator or the confidential adviser.