Think-Forward Posting Guide: Your Digital Decisions

Every time you hit "share," "post," or "send," you're adding to your digital footprint. This footprint is like an echo that lasts forever online, and it shapes your digital reputation.

Here are some questions to ask yourself before you post to ensure your digital self reflects your best self:

1. The "Grandma Test": Would I Be Okay With My Grandma Seeing This?

• Consider: If someone you respect (like a grandparent, teacher, or future employer) saw this post, would you be proud of it? Would it accurately represent who you are?
• Why it matters: Your online content might be seen by people you never intended to see it, and their perception of you could be influenced by it.

2. The "Future You" Test: Will I Regret This in 5 Years?

• Consider: What seems funny or cool now might be embarrassing or harmful later. Think about future college applications, job interviews, or even just how your own feelings might change.
• Why it matters: Once something is online, it's incredibly difficult to remove completely. Screenshots and archives mean content can resurface years later.

3. The "Impact Test": How Does This Affect Others?

• Consider: Does this post hurt, disrespect, or embarrass anyone else? Could it be misinterpreted? Even if you think it's a joke, how might others feel?
• Why it matters: Online interactions can easily lose context, and a casual comment can have a significant negative impact on someone else's feelings or reputation.

4. The "Privacy Check": Who Really Sees This?

• Consider: Have you checked your privacy settings? Even with strict settings, can friends screenshot and re-share? Is there any personal information (address, phone number, location) that you wouldn't want widely known?
• Why it matters: Protecting your personal information is key to your safety and security online. Be mindful of how much you reveal and to whom.

5. The "Truth Test": Is This Accurate and Respectful?

• Consider: Is the information you're sharing true? Are you spreading rumors or misinformation? Is your tone respectful, even when discussing disagreements?
• Why it matters: Being a responsible digital citizen means contributing positively and accurately to online spaces. False information can cause real-world harm.

By taking a few moments to ask these questions, you can make more thoughtful decisions about your online presence and build a positive and lasting digital reputation.

Red Flag / Green Flag Posting Scenarios

Instructions: Read each scenario below. With a partner, decide if the post is a RED FLAG (high risk, potentially harmful) or a GREEN FLAG (low risk, generally safe). Be prepared to explain your reasoning to the class.

Cut out these cards, or just discuss them as numbered scenarios.

Scenario 1

Post: A picture of your perfectly plated homemade dinner, with a caption, "Chef in the making! 🍜 #homemade #dinnergoals"

Red Flag / Green Flag?

Reasoning:

Scenario 2

Post: A screenshot of a private text conversation with a friend, where they are sharing something personal and embarrassing. You caption it, "You won't believe what [friend's name] just told me! 😂"

Red Flag / Green Flag?

Reasoning:

Scenario 3

Post: A photo of you and your sports team celebrating a victory, all wearing your team jerseys. Caption: "Champions! So proud of this team! 🏆"

Red Flag / Green Flag?

Reasoning:

Scenario 4

Post: A video of you making fun of a teacher, imitating their voice and mannerisms, and sharing it with a private group chat of classmates.

Red Flag / Green Flag?

Reasoning:

Scenario 5

Post: Sharing an article about a topic you're passionate about (e.g., environmental conservation, space exploration) with a thoughtful comment explaining why it interests you. Caption: "Fascinating read on climate change! What are your thoughts? #science #future"

Red Flag / Green Flag?

Reasoning:

Scenario 6

Post: A selfie taken at a party where people are clearly underage and consuming alcohol. Your face is visible, but you are not holding a drink. Caption: "Wild night! 🥳"

Red Flag / Green Flag?

Reasoning:

Scenario 7

Post: You receive a message from an unknown sender asking for your home address to send you a prize. You share your address directly with them without verifying their identity.

Red Flag / Green Flag?

Reasoning:

Scenario 8

Post: A positive review of a local business you enjoyed, detailing what you liked about their service. Caption: "Amazing coffee and great service at [Coffee Shop Name]! Highly recommend! ☕"

Red Flag / Green Flag?

Reasoning:

My Personal Posting Guidelines

Based on our discussion, the Think-Forward Posting Guide, and the Red Flag/Green Flag Sort activity, it's time to create your own personal rules for posting online.

Think about what you value, how you want to be seen, and how you can protect yourself and others.

Guideline 1:

Guideline 2:

Guideline 3:

## My "Non-Negotiable" Guideline

If you could only pick one rule from above that you will always follow before posting online, what would it be and why is it so important to you?

My Non-Negotiable Guideline:

Why it's non-negotiable:

Exit Ticket: My Digital Non-Negotiable

What is one "non-negotiable" guideline you will follow when posting online? Explain why this guideline is so important to you and how it will help protect your digital footprint and reputation.