Free Assembly Teaching Students How to be Media Sharp in an Age of Too Much Content
The University of Pittsburgh Johnstown’s Communications Department and the Division of Business devised a contemporary presentation to teach high school students how best to use social media, how to detect content that is from a reliable source and provide tips on how best to represent oneself online for future opportunities like preparing for college or a job. We know the challenges principals and counselor’s face when dealing with social media issues. This presentation helps set the stage for proper social media usage.
During this captivating 45-minute free assembly, humorous pop culture references will engage students to learn about how to be media savvy. Students will be informed about how their social media perception will affect their public image, their educational pursuits and their future. Social media gives everyone a voice – this session will advise on how to use that voice properly and how to listen to others.
“We designed this program to help counselors and principals share knowledge about how students can present themselves well in social media,” said xecutive Director of Communications Eric Sloss. “Employers and colleges are reviewing social media feeds to select the best possible candidates. This education helps students prepare for life after high school.”
The program explains laws that make cyber-harassment a third-degree misdemeanor. Participating schools and libraries will receive Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) credits.
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Be Media Sharp offers:
- Teach your students how best to represent themselves in social media to prepare for college or a job
- Learn how to colleges and companies use social media to vet candidates
- Learn the safety and security of students when using electronic mail, chat rooms and other forms of social media
- Learn how to pick out “fake news” content distributed online
- Understand the laws like Act 26. The law makes cyber-harassment a third-degree misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum $2,500 fine and/or one year in prison. The law helps schools, which are often expected to handle cyberbullying whether it happens on school grounds or not. “An offense under subsection (a.1) may be deemed to have been committed at the place where the child who is the subject of the communication resides.”
- Receive Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) Credits
The Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) was enacted by Congress in 2000 to address concerns about children's access to obscene or harmful content over the Internet. CIPA imposes certain requirements on schools or libraries that receive discounts for Internet access or internal connections through the E-rate program – a program that makes certain communications services and products more affordable for eligible schools and libraries. What CIPA requires? Schools and libraries subject to CIPA may not receive the discounts offered by the E-rate program unless they certify that they have an Internet safety policy that includes technology protection measures.
Testimonial
“The Media Savvy Presentation was engaging and timely. The freshmen responded in a positive manner and continued to ask questions after the Pitt-Johnstown team left the school. Overall, the time spent with the Pitt-Johnstown team enlightened the students about the reality of social media. Also, students reflected upon their choices and decisions. Without a doubt, I would recommend this presentation to open discussion and further educate young minds about media usage,” Lucy M. Lapalucci, M.Ed., Social Studies Teacher, Freshman Seminar Teacher, Greensburg Salem High School