In the digital age we now inhabit, ensuring students understand digital safety and ethics is paramount, especially in the field of science. Science teachers are not just responsible for teaching theories and facts, but also play a vital role in student guidance in navigating digital landscapes responsibly, with principals of ethics and safety becoming paramount as much of our work collectively moves online (Smith, 2018).

Digital safety in a science context refers to privacy of data, managing secure communication networks and the ethical handling of scientific information and findings (Nevaranta et al., 2020). When science students handle data, be it experimental or via online resources, it is essential that they learn to handle it responsibly and safely, respecting privacy concerns and ensuring what they are working with is ethical and within boundaries of the legal system.

Ethics extends beyond safety, its about a culture of honesty, responsibility and respect. Students need to learn how to avoid plagiarism, cite sources adequately and understand the importance of accurate representations. In the modern era, misinformation can spread like wildfire, and science teachers have an opportunity to instil in their students a commitment to standards, and to distinguish fact from pseudo fact in their educational and professional lives.

For these reasons, it is essential that teachers build a foundational knowledge in this area themselves, leading by example and creating environments that support and encourage students to behave ethically and safely in digital spaces. Below are some links to further resources that can kick start this knowledge and provide the necessary background knowledge to give your students the most benefit. Are you ready to empower your students with these skills?