Virginia's public school students now have access to an online program that can teach them how to use technology and understand the dangers that lurk in cyberspace.
My Digital Life will allow students to gain digital literacy and see the effects a harmful online post can have years down the road.
Gov. Bob McDonnell announced the public-private partnership Thursday morning, saying that, for young people to maximize their future success, they must be fluent in computers and technology.
He noted technology has done great things to enhance education and people's lives, but he pointed out it also presents challenges such as cyber bullying and Internet fraud.
"One of the best things we can do is give young people the no-nonsense pros and cons about Internet and cyber-literacy," McDonnell said. "That's what My Digital Life is all about. ... It is something that will help enrich their lives and make all of their use of technology safe and productive."
My Digital Life, a 3½-hour online program for eighth- and ninth-graders, is a joint effort by Northern Virginia-based technology company Neustar and digital education platform provider EverFi.
The program will be provided to Virginia's school divisions at no cost — EverFi chief executive Tom Davidson said it would cost more than $1 million if paid by the schools — and participation is optional. The program was launched in Kentucky last week, he said, and has already gained a foothold in at least eight districts.
The program's curriculum focuses on building digital skills such as creating a blog, maintaining a responsible social network and evaluating online research sources. It also covers a wide range of topics, from privacy to security to cyber bullying.
The initiative is being hailed as much-needed instruction for Virginia's students. Sen. Mark R. Warner, D-Va., said it is important to teach students how to use the Internet responsibly.
"What you say and do on the Internet can and will come back to bite you at some point," Warner said.
Henrico County schools issue laptop computers to each of its students and puts filters on what the students are able to access online. Superintendent Patrick J. Russo said his division will look to implement this new digital literacy initiative to assist students.
Officials also hope that as students become more proficient with technology, it will steer them toward STEM fields — science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
"For us, this investment is about teaching our children to be safe on the Internet, as well as teaching them to be comfortable with technology and go into technology careers," said Lisa Hook, president and CEO of Neustar.
EverFI also offers online programs on such issues as alcohol responsibility, financial literacy and sexual-assault prevention, Davidson said.
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