Building Digital Citizenship in Asia Pacific: A Review of Policy Readiness
Abstract: This paper presents key findings of UNESCO’s Policy Review that took stock of the education sector’s readiness in fostering digital citizenship among children aged 0-18 years old. Participated by 22 Asia Pacific countries, the review addresses core indicators including availability of national curriculum for digital citizenship, policies that guide schools in mediating children’s appropriate use of ICT and capacitating teachers, schools’ online security measures, and adequate school infrastructure. Findings indicate that 1) more than half of the surveyed countries have not introduced the concept of safe, effective, and responsible use of ICT to their national curriculum, 2) national standards for teacher qualification have yet to integrate the concept, 3) only a few schools are equipped with a secured network, and 4) more attention should be given to younger children (0-8). Policy recommendations to address observed gaps between policies and practices are likewise proposed.