Teachers engage in various activities and roles in the lives of their students or, generally, in the community. Presently, people around the globe are reliant on the statements or news on different social media platforms, however, at the same time, the wildfire-like spread of false information is also prevalent. Further, in accordance with the previous statement, as individuals become more dependent on social media, they must know how to use it responsibly.
As teachers use social media platforms regularly due to the current situation, they must exhibit the accountable use of it, in terms of their online activities and interactions. Through this, they may serve as a good role model to their students as well as their parents. With that being said, one of the roles of teachers in promoting responsible social media interaction is to be a good role model. As a member of the community and as an educator, they should know how to properly interact online as their students somehow observe them as well.
Additionally, teachers should also serve as a mediator when he/she notices thoughtless interaction in social media. Mediator in a way that he/she will inform both parties about their irresponsible deed — though take into consideration that a mediator must not take any sides. Also, another role of teachers in promoting responsible social media interaction is to truly embody his/her profession, as an educator who teaches inside the four corners of the classroom or, in today’s setup, through technologies. Aside from Mathematics, Science, English, or other subjects, teachers must educate, not only their students, but anyone who violates the netiquettes, to properly use the platform.
In terms of combatting the spread of fake news, the first thing that a teacher can do is to avoid outspreading one, it’s ironic if someone, not only for teachers, promotes against the spread of fake news, but actually spreads one. Also, teachers must point out and assess fake news whenever they encounter them, especially if he/she is knowledgeable about the topic involved. It is indeed good that you are well-informed about the topic, but it is better if you enlighten the victims of fake news to aid in reducing its dissemination.
A lot of consequences could happen because of fake statements, the parties involved could suffer a lot from it. Fake news could degrade individuals who are actually innocent or vice versa, which could greatly affect their lives. Considering this, everyone must know that it is a must to check the source if it is credible or not, fact-checking is important.
Now that the situation’s far from the traditional one that everyone is accustomed to, the responsibilities of each member of the society, which includes every single teacher, has increased. The roles of the teachers don’t stop within the classroom or the Zoom meeting. Since schooling in the Philippines mostly revolves online or around social media platforms, teachers must observe proper Internet etiquettes, which involves responsible interaction — liking, commenting, posting, or sharing and dispersal of accurate and educational information.
By: Charis N. Alfanta | Teacher I | BNHS-JHS
