Journal #8: Point/Counterpoint: Should Schools Be Responsible for Cyberbulling?

Bogacz, R., & Gordillo, M. (2011). Should schools be held accountable for cyberbullying. Leading and Learning 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

In the article, Bogacz and Gordillo give suggestions of how cyberbulling can be controlled. In the first section Bogacz says that technology has enabled students to bully each other and school administrators cannot ignore what is happening because it is having an impact on the academic environment. Bogacz suggests that with the cooperation of parents, teachers, school administrators, and students cyberbullying can be prevented. In the second section Gordillo argues that the schools don't need to be held accountable for cyberbullying. He believes that prevention needs to start at home with the parents. He believes that if students recieve love at home from their parents, bullying will be a less likely occurence. Parents are a student's first educator and they need to learn how to work with schools to educate their children and prevent bullying. He believes that schools can help restore families back to being supportive, loving, and caring units, but schools can't do it by themselves, they need help. The conclusions of both sides of the argument were very different. Bogacz concluded saying if everyone works together to prevent bulling, it will end. But if one group doesn't put in the effort, everything will be for nothing. Gordillo concludes by saying that schools can only help foster the prevention of bulling, it is up to families to teach their children to stop bullying.

Question 1: How can schools prevent cyberbullying?

A: Schools can do many things to prevent cyberbullying. One thing they can do is have parents and students sign a contract to prevent it from occurring. I would also create a comfortable classroom that encourages respect. Another thing I would is make sure students know it is okay to report bullying to teachers.

Question 2: How can parents prevent cyberbullying?

A: Parents can teach their children that its not okay to bully others in any form, including through technology. Parents should also monitor their children when they are on the Internet or using their cell phones. Another thing parents can do is work with their children's school to create or carry out an anti-bullying policy.