This study explores the associations of wisdom-oriented strengths –creativity, curiosity, open-mindedness, love of learning, and perspective– and information technological competence (ICT) beliefs with self-reported teaching of specific digital citizenship skills in preschoolers among 109 in-service teachers (Mage = 32.74; SDage = 18.0) in Hong Kong and the Philippines via a cross-sectional design. A survey with scales to assess wisdom-oriented character strengths, ICT competence beliefs, and perceived teaching of digital citizenship dimensions was administered to participants. Results of logistic regression analyses showed that curiosity and perspective served as more robust predictors of teaching different digital citizenship skills in preschoolers. These findings suggest that teachers with greater curiosity and capacity to see the ‘bigger picture’ in various aspects of life are likely to teach critical features of digital citizenship such as effective communication and digital footprint and identity. The analyzing and reflecting dimension of ICT competence belief was linked to higher likelihood of teaching the relationships and communication dimension of digital citizenship. This research highlights the importance of fostering psychological strengths in supporting pedagogical practices that facilitate responsible use of technology in younger children.

Authors:
Jana Patricia Valdez, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Jesus Alfonso Datu, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Jesus Alfonso Datu is a University Associate Professor/Senior Lecturer at The University of Hong Kong in Hong Kong

See this presentation on the full schedule – Wednesday Schedule

Bookmark