Critical Reflection
This inquiry has led me on an educational journey as I researched using a number of sources to develop my understandings of cyber bullying. Upon completion of my inquiry I can now reflect on how my pre understandings, assumptions and biases were either correct or have now changed following the gathering of import facts and information. This includes the importance of a an evolving family structure to meet the demands of an ever changing technological world (Cheal, 2002).
There are many aspects of cyber bullying that I have learnt about during this inquiry. However with technology constantly moving the goal posts it is obvious that as a pre-service teacher I will need to update my knowledge and understandings on a regular basis. I have discovered how easy it is for cyber bullying to take place and that bullying no longer has boundaries as it occurs anywhere at any time where there is a technological device and internet access. Since starting my pre service practical experiences I have witnessed firsthand the importance of a strong home- school connection. This is supported by the Family-school partnership framework whose aim is to encourage sustainable and effective partnerships between all members of the school community, including teachers, families, and students (Department of Education, employment and workplace relations [DEWR], 2013). If I can create an inclusive classroom where both students and parents feel comfortable enough to be themselves and safe enough to communicate and express themselves without the worries of any repercussions then I will have a better chance of students confiding in me if they are being subjected to any form of bullying.
I understand that all teachers are bound by an ethical responsibility to act professionally when addressing issues of bullying (Queensland College of Teachers, 2013). This includes the requirement to ensure that students fully understand what cyber bullying is and provide them with the strategies to deal with it should they find the need to. Educators are also bound to respond effectively to all cyber bullying which needs to be investigated promptly and in an unbiased manner for both the victim and the perpetrator. Providing students with the tools to avoid cyber bullying will entail educating them to use technology in a safe and responsible manner.
There are many aspects of cyber bullying that I have learnt about during this inquiry. However with technology constantly moving the goal posts it is obvious that as a pre-service teacher I will need to update my knowledge and understandings on a regular basis. I have discovered how easy it is for cyber bullying to take place and that bullying no longer has boundaries as it occurs anywhere at any time where there is a technological device and internet access. Since starting my pre service practical experiences I have witnessed firsthand the importance of a strong home- school connection. This is supported by the Family-school partnership framework whose aim is to encourage sustainable and effective partnerships between all members of the school community, including teachers, families, and students (Department of Education, employment and workplace relations [DEWR], 2013). If I can create an inclusive classroom where both students and parents feel comfortable enough to be themselves and safe enough to communicate and express themselves without the worries of any repercussions then I will have a better chance of students confiding in me if they are being subjected to any form of bullying.
I understand that all teachers are bound by an ethical responsibility to act professionally when addressing issues of bullying (Queensland College of Teachers, 2013). This includes the requirement to ensure that students fully understand what cyber bullying is and provide them with the strategies to deal with it should they find the need to. Educators are also bound to respond effectively to all cyber bullying which needs to be investigated promptly and in an unbiased manner for both the victim and the perpetrator. Providing students with the tools to avoid cyber bullying will entail educating them to use technology in a safe and responsible manner.