From the Classroom to the Chatroom - Cyberbullying is a 21st Century Problem
Digital information literacy is a hallmark of school library learning. Students learn how to engage with websites for purposes of education, learning, and evaluation…but what are students being taught about the social aspect of the Internet? Though the World Wide Web is a resource for learning and a place to interact with friends and family, it can also be host to many virtual dangers. Twenty years ago, a student might have been able to avoid a bully by staying physically separated. Nowadays, a bully can reach their victim anytime and anywhere so long there is online access.
Cyberbullying is a complex issue which can have devastating effects on a student’s mental health, wellbeing, safety, and ability to learn. Behind the anonymity of a screen, students may feel more comfortable sharing secrets or acting out against others. If a child enters an online space without knowing the potential consequences of oversharing, they may become a target of predatory behaviors from peers and strangers. A bully may see social media as a window of opportunity to lash out at others without worry of meaningful consequences. Many of these engagements occur in private, making it difficult for concerned adults to intervene without noticing the signs or being confided in by a victim.
Despite its wide prevalence, many states, districts, and schools lack laws, policies, consequences, and resources related to cyberbullying. It is largely up to students to figure out how to appropriately behave on the Internet, avoid conflict, and keep their information secure. By watching for signs, staying familiar with digital terminology, and becoming an advocate for victims, school librarians can help students stay safe online and bounce back from virtual attacks.

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