Being Internet Mature is different and much more than merely being Internet savvy!
While an Internet savvy person knows only the technical aspects of using the Internet and how to do things online, an Internet mature person knows the purpose behind each of the online activities and also understands the threats & risks which need to be avoided on the Internet. While an Internet savvy person could be very active on Internet but that does not mean he or she would be able to use the Internet productively and safely. In contrast, an Internet mature person is able to do the following:
1. Understand What is Web 2.0.
2. Create & Share Digital Content effectively.
3. Mature Way of Social Networking.
4. Mature Way of professional Networking.
5. Do Online Forum Discussions effectively.
6. Write Blogs effectively for Self-Expression.
7. Search trustworthy Knowledge Online.
8. Utilize open courseware & MOOCs for self-learning and self-training.
9. Be Safe & act ethically Responsibly Online.
10. Build a Positive Online Reputation for career success.
Let's understand the above points in detail:
Understanding What is Web 2.0 - Web 2.0 refers to the second generation of the World Wide Web, which allows for increased user interactivity and collaboration. An Internet mature person would understand the concept of Web 2.0 and how it has changed the way we interact and share information online. He or she would be aware of the power of publishing and the power of networking which the Web 2.0 has put into people’s hands. An Internet savvy user could simply be using those powers blindly or mindlessly.
Creating & Sharing Digital Content Effectively - An Internet mature person would not only know how to create and share digital content, but they would also understand the importance of creating high-quality, accurate, and appropriate content. They would also understand the importance of sharing it in the right places and with the right audience. An Internet savvy user could simply be sharing digital content online mindlessly.
Mature Way of Social Networking - An Internet mature person would not only know how to use social media, but they would also understand the importance of building and maintaining personal relationships online. They would also understand the importance of privacy and security when using social media. An Internet savvy user could simply be connecting with every possible person online and randomly sharing stuff on Facebook, Instagram etc..
Mature Way of Professional Networking - An Internet mature person would understand the importance of building and maintaining professional relationships online. They would use professional networking platforms, like Linkedin, to connect with others in their industry and to build their personal brand. An Internet savvy user could simply be creating his/her profile on Linkedin just because he/she can, without understanding the specialities or purpose of Linkedin.
Doing Online Forum Discussions Effectively - An Internet mature person would understand the importance of participating in online forums and discussions in a professional and respectful manner. They would also understand the importance of listening to and engaging with others in these forums.
Writing Blogs Effectively for Self-Expression - An Internet mature person would understand the importance of blogging as a tool for self-expression and personal branding. They would know how to create high-quality, engaging content that is appropriate for their audience.
Searching Trustworthy Knowledge Online - An Internet mature person would understand the importance of searching for trustworthy and reliable sources of information online. They would know how to evaluate the credibility and authority of sources and would be able to distinguish between credible and fake news. An Internet savvy user might simply be “Googling” stuff.
Utilizing Open Courseware & MOOCs for Self-Learning and Self-Training - An Internet mature person would understand the value of online education and training. They would be able to use open courseware and massive open online courses (MOOCs) to further their education and professional development.
Being Safe & Acting Ethically Responsibly Online - An Internet mature person would understand the importance of staying safe and acting ethically online. They would be aware of the risks and threats present on the Internet and would take steps to protect themselves and others. An Internet savvy user could very well be unaware about the aspects of online ethics!
Building a Positive Online Reputation for Career Success - An Internet mature person would understand the importance of building a positive online reputation. They would understand how their online presence can impact their career and would take steps to maintain a positive reputation online. An Internet savvy user might not be mindful at all about his or her online reputation.
Internet maturity is about having a deeper understanding of the Internet and its capabilities and using it in a productive, safe, and ethical manner. It is about knowing the purpose behind different online activities, understanding the risks and threats present on the Internet, and taking steps to protect ourselves and others. It also includes using the Internet to further our education and professional development and building a positive online reputation for career success.
That's why we are on the mission to make #EveryChildInternetMature :)