In an increasingly digital world, young people across the world are interacting in new ways with a new level of independence. While online spaces can offer a positive experience, it is important to be aware of the dangers of online violence. Our education team has been working together with other organisations as part of a EU-funded project designed to build awareness and education about online violence against women and girls. The result of this is the Cyber Safe MOOC (massive online open course), designed for educators who want to address online violence – including online sexual harassment and online safety – with the young people in their care. Teachers, sports coaches, and other professionals who work with young people are part of their lives in a unique way, and we believe it is important as the educator to guide and protect young people towards healthy relationships both with themselves and with others. As one participant put it “the world is always changing, and we as educators should stay updated”.
At a recent workshop participants were familiarised with the skills and content necessary to deliver the MOOC to others. Participants were guided through the four constituent modules of the course, which covered topics such as how to recognise online violence, prevention and response policies, and how to teach young people about online violence through interactive games and activities to involve the participants in the learning process. MOOC specifically addresses gender-based online violence, as girls are disproportionally affected by this – especially violence of a sexualised nature. The module focuses on proactive, communication-driven tools to address the issue amongst young people in a classroom or other settings, in order to promote safe and responsible online behaviours. With case studies, videos, and interactive games, the CyberSafe project is full of resources and support information that can be shared in many different settings, from the classroom to the sports hall to the community centre. The CyberSafe project equips participants with the tools to combat harmful behaviours using a model based on conversation and collaboration, allowing everyone to have a say and work together to protect and support each other.
Nexus is proud to be a partner on a project that emphasises consent-based, compassionate education that removes stigma and promotes healthy relationships between young people, teachers, guardians, and their peers. If you would like to find out more about this free to use course, please visit https://www.stoponlineviolence.eu/ or contact jan.winton@nexusni.org
