Directions for private schools to communicate positively and prevent bullying in distance learning

Private school administrations in various emirates of the country have identified a package of educational guidelines, which included 8 guidelines for students, with the aim of promoting a distance learning environment based on mutual respect and positive communication, free from aspects of digital bullying, within the framework of supporting responsible behavior while using digital educational platforms.

Personal and behavioral values

School principals Khaled Abdel Hamid, Salma Eid, and Walid Fouad Lafi confirmed to Emirates Al-Youm that implementing distance learning requires greater awareness of the foundations of electronic communication, stressing the importance of students’ adherence to the etiquette of dialogue during interaction through educational platforms, as written words reflect personal values ​​and moral behaviors, and directly affect the general educational climate.

Slow down before writing

They stated that the instructions call on students to be careful before writing messages or sending comments, and to think about the appropriateness of expressions and their respect for others, which contributes to reducing misunderstanding or using expressions that may be interpreted negatively. She also urged adopting a spirit of support and cooperation among students, by providing assistance and avoiding any behavior that might cause embarrassment or distress to others.

The necessity of abstinence

Schools stressed the need to refrain from sharing any content that may be considered offensive, whether it is pictures, clips, or conversations, that may be used to ridicule or embarrass, as this has negative psychological and social effects on students, in addition to its violation of the behavioral policies approved in educational institutions.

Respect privacy

The directives focused on respecting the privacy of others in the digital environment, and not photographing the screen or recording classes or conversations without obtaining prior permission, considering that protecting privacy is an essential pillar in building a safe educational environment.

Digital media

She also recommended choosing words carefully, given that joking through digital media may be perceived differently than intended, which could lead to misinterpretation or unintended offense.

Positive content

School administrations stressed the importance of students being role models in their electronic presence, by publishing positive and purposeful content that promotes a culture of respect and cooperation, while recalling that the digital impact remains for a long time, and that what is published online may be circulated or kept, which calls for greater responsibility when using educational platforms.

Culture of respect

School principals explained that these guidelines come as part of their ongoing efforts to establish a culture of respect in the digital world, promote positive behaviors that support the distance learning experience, and provide a safe and stimulating learning environment for all students.