Cyber Safety Awareness – Through the Lens of 21st Century Learning Skills and Game-Based Learning

Abstract

The decrease in the cost of ICT devices has seen a steady increase in ICT users connecting to cyberspace. The number of cyber users has increased over the years and across the globe. One group of cyber users that actively participates in cyberspace are the youth (school learners) that use cyberspace or education and socializing. However, school learners do not have the required cyber safety awareness, skills and knowledge to protect themselves and their information in cyberspace. These cyber users participate on social media sites, on instant messaging forums and use the web to gather information. Being a cyber user has numerous advantages for any cyber user. However, these cyber users are also exposed to a wide range of cyber dangers within cyberspace. It is therefore vital that all cyber users in cyberspace be aware of various negative cyber incidents that can occur. Examples of such incidents include identity theft, hacking, sexting and the receiving of unwanted material. It is therefore vital that all cyber users be aware of the cyber risks and threats and know how to address or avoid a cyber threat. This research aims to (1) identify different building blocks that are needed to establish and grow a cyber safety culture in South Africa, (2) identify the different cyber safety topics to include in the cyber safety curriculum, (3) identify the 21st century learning skills that underpin cyber safety awareness, education, knowledge and skills development, and lastly, (4) provide a presentation method for a cyber safety approach.