Solutions

As previously discussed in current practices, school administrators and lawmakers are working hard to put policies into place that protect students from cyber bullying. Their efforts, though, clearly aren't enough to solve the issue, especially with digital communication creeping into every aspect of our lives. There are several solutions apart from implementing rules that, when combined, could help.

Solutions for Students - Be Cyber Bullying Savvy
1. Don't open messages from someone you don't know
2. Refuse to pass along cyber bullying messages
3. Don't send a message when you are angry
4. If you are contacted in a way that feels threatening or hurtful, tell someone!
5. If you are contacted by a cyber bully, save ALL of the information - it is evidence.
6. Never send ANYONE inappropriate photos of yourself

Solutions for Parents -
1. Accept the challenge and the responsibility
Some people don't acknowledge the harm associated with cyber bullying. They argue there are other, "more serious" forms of aggression to worry about. Select parents plead ignorance when it comes to their child's bullying activity claiming, "I don't have the technological skills to know what he's up to," and so on. Furthermore, there exists the argument that technology is a great invention, and every great invention has its shortcomings.  Through supported statistics, research findings, and cyber bullying stories, the truth must be revealed.  Once a realization is made, parents can accept the challenge of combating cyber bullying.

2. Recognize cyber bullying
Know the warning signs of a victim of cyber bullying. These include the unexpected discontinuation of computer or cellphone use, noticeable irritation or nervousness upon hearing text or instant messaging alerts, and uneasiness about attending school or going outside in general. Anger, depression, and frustration after using the computer or cell phone are also indicators. A child may become withdrawn and seem uninterested in usual activities and their grades may drop noticeably. It is also important to know the warning signs of a cyber bully. If a child switches screens or closes programs when adults walk by, gets unusually upset when technology privileges are removed, or appears to be using more than one online account, investigate the situation further.

3. Place computer(s) with internet access in an open space that is commonly used.

Solutions for Teachers
1. Be smart about technology you assign
If there is a way to misuse the technology, you can be pretty sure one of your students will take advantage of it. Plan ahead just in case. If you assign an interactive message board, for example, take away the option of anonymity by switching the settings of posts to traceable.

2. Teach e-sponsibility
Prepare students for cyber bullying by providing them the tips listed at the top of this post. Share stories of cyber bullying so students realize the powerful impact their words can have. Some teachers choose to have their students complete projects on cyber bullying. Making slide-shows, movies, and songs about the dangers of cyber bullying shows students how to use technology in a positive way. Making comic strips like this one can incorporate both art and technology.

This video was produced by an ad council to increase awareness about cyber bullying. This could be a great teaching tool!

Streamed from Youtube

Resources:

“Stop Cyberbullying – Guide for Parents.” Safety Web. 14 Feb. 2011. Web. 2 Jun 2011. <http://www.safetyweb.com/stop-cyber-bullying>.

Belsey, Bill. "What Can Be Done." Cyberbullying.org. Pure Sight. Web. 28 May 2011. <http://www.cyberbullying.org>.