Digital citizenship refers to the appropriate norms and responsible behavior with regard to the use of information technology. It involves effectively utilization of information to engage in society participation on politics and current issues. A digital citizen is therefore a person with extensive knowledge and skill to access internet sources of information through mobile phones and computer (Darity, 2008).
Digital citizenships influenced the downfall of the long Egyptian dictatorial government. This is because the use of information technology is a powerful tool towards knowledge enlightenment among people (Mossberger & McNeal, 2008). People characterize themselves through media by creating blogs and social networks. The Egyptians through social media engaged in E-debates on current issues and which contributed to the creation of liberation revolution.
The primary element of digital citizenship towards the revolution is digital literacy. Egyptians have made progress on technology infusion. Technology users then exploited digital information to discuss and address most pressing issues (Ribble, 2009). This is normally made possible through digital etiquette where inappropriate behaviors can be analyzed by the general public to reach a solution. Social media tools such as Facebook and Tweeter played a great role towards the movement to liberate Egypt.
The advantage of using electronic social media tools is that, information can circulate in a span of minutes. People get informed and updated and therefore getting a chance to participate and give their opinion on the current issues (Rosebraugh, Muntaqim, & Paul, 2009). The disadvantage of digital citizenship is that, social media could enable people share inappropriate information. For instance, circulation of dirty pictures, insults and hate speeches can result to undesired effects. It also brings opinion divisions hence weakening the unity of the society.
References
Darity, W. A. (2008). International encyclopedia of the social sciences. Detroit, Mich: Macmillan Reference USA.
digital citizenship contribution towards crumbling dictatorship governme. (n.d.).
Mossberger, K., Tolbert, C. J., & McNeal, R. S. (2008). Digital citizenship: The internet, society, and participation. Cambridge, Mass: MIT Press.
Ribble, M., & International Society for Technology in Education (2009). Raising a digital child: A digital citizenship handbook for parents. Eugene, Or: HomePage Books.
Rosebraugh, C., Muntaqim, J. A., & Paul, J. (2009). This country must change: Essays on the necessity of revolution in the USA. Chicago: Arissa Media Group, LLC.
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