On Tuesday 22 October, Marist College students were equipped with online safety skills after participating in Optus Digital Thumbprint Program, a free in-school program that supports young people to be safe, responsible and positive online. Over 400 students at Marist College between Years 7 to 9 took part in Optus Digital Thumbprint program which aims to prepare them with simple and effective tools for being safe online.
Luke Deitz, Optus Territory General Manager for North West Victoria said he was thrilled to bring the program to students at Marist College as safe digital practice starts with a simple conversation around some of the challenging topics related to the online world.
Its important for us to highlight to students that they dont have to be an expert at navigating the internet to practice safe habits. The Digital Thumbprint program ensures students are able to take home some valuable skills when it comes to cybersecurity, verifying credible information and what to keep in mind to create a positive digital footprint.
The generation of digital natives are always online, whether its to complete school work or stay in touch with their friends and family. The program has been designed to incorporate an interactive and original approach to educating students on key issues such as how to protect their identity and information online and building positive and respectful relationships online.
Students learn how easily things on the internet go viral and are shown practical examples of how to take precautions such as creating strong passwords and enabling privacy settings on social media to shape their future for the better.
Candice Ellis, Marist College Bendigo Educator said, It was great for students to hear real life examples of different situations. It creates authenticity and was engaging for all students. There was a strong connection between the students and the presenter.
Since 2013, the government accredited Optus Digital Thumbprint program has educated over 300,000 primary and secondary students across Australia on how to be safer and smarter online.
Optus Digital Thumbprint is free for schools and does not promote any Optus products or services.
