Journal #8: “Point/Counterpoint: Should Schools Be Held Responsible for Cyberbullying?" (NETS-T III-V)

Bogacz, R, & Gómez-Gordillo, M. (2011). Point/counterpoint: should schools be held responsible for cyberbullying?. Learning and Leading with Technology, 38(6), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/issues/Point_Counterpoint_Should_Schools_Be_Held_Responsible_for_Cyberbullying.aspx

Summary:  Author Renee Bogacz believes that schools should be held responsible for cyberbullying, and that they should take action to stop and prevent it from happening. She places the responsibility on the school administrators, teachers, parents and even the students themselves. Bogacz advises teachers to educate themselves about cyberbullying, and the laws and resources that are in place to help victims. Most importantly, she encourages teachers to listen to their students who come to them reporting any cyberbullying activity. Bogacz persuades school administrators to establish clear and enforceable consequences to cyberbullying and to contact law enforcement immediately after any report of such violation. To prevent cyberbullying, parents should always be involved and know what their children are doing online and with their cell phones, Bogacz cautions.  Students too often are unwilling or afraid to stand up for those who are being bullied, so Bogacz urges students to take responsibility and to report any signs of cyberbullying.  

Miguel Gómez Gordillo argues that schools are not responsible for the actions of children with serious behavioral problems. He claims that is it a societal problem and that parents are at the root of this problem. He recommends that schools should establish a close connection with the families of the students.  He believes that supporting families will allow for a collaborative and complementary education that will lead to a better society. His final say is that healthy families will lead to a healthy society and that schools should support that role.

Question #1: As a future educator, how can I protect all my students from cyberbullying?

I have begun educating myself about what cyberbullying is, how to prevent it, and what to do about it. I also plan to be an active listener and will encourage two-way communication with my students. I plan on establish a trusting classroom environment and have an open-door policy. I believe that these are the first and necessary steps to protecting my students.

Question #2: Do you agree, or disagree, with Miguel Gómez Gordillo, in that the family unit is to blame for many societal problems?

I agree with Gordillo, that the family unit influences and plays a major role in one’s life. However, as a future educator I want to do everything I can to protect and educate my students. Pointing the finger at families and not getting involved is just as bad, or perhaps even worse, than doing the actual bullying. Yes, it is important to collaborate and work together with families, but as educators we must also take personal responsibility and do our part to prevent and stop cyberbullying.