Cyberbullying

(students’ age, learning level, background, disabilities)

Students will:

• Understand the definition, forms, and impacts of cyberbullying.
• Recognize the signs of someone being cyberbullied and the consequences for victims.
• Learn strategies to respond to and prevent cyberbullying through an interactive game.
• Engage in role-playing to practice intervention techniques and develop empathy.

Skills

• Digital literacy
• Critical thinking
• Collaboration

• E-self management
• Social e-competency
• Emotional leadership/e-mediacy

Emphasizing streghts (T1.Lean on your strengths and have a positive mindset)

Encouraging engagement (Engage students in self-directed and dedicated learning)

Goal-oriented learning (T7.Be persistent and work toward your goals)

• Computers or tablets with internet access
• https://www.rayuela-h2020.eu/download-the-game/

 (Description, duration, worksheets….)

Reflection after the game
Once the game ends, review the decisions made by each team. Discuss why certain choices were better than others and how students can apply these strategies in real life. Emphasize the importance of not reacting impulsively, but rather seeking help and blocking harmful content.

Understanding Cyberbullying
After the game, lead a brief discussion to ensure students understand what cyberbullying is and the different ways it can occur. Cover the following points:

• What is Cyberbullying?: Using technology (social media, online gaming, texting, etc.) to harass, insult, or harm someone.
• Common Channels: Social media, SMS, instant messaging apps, online games.
• Types of Cyberbullying Behaviors:
  • Posting hurtful comments or images.
  • Harassment through repeated messaging.
  • Spreading rumors or exclusion.

Why People Cyberbully
Discuss the motivations behind cyberbullying:

• Seeking control or attention.
• Revenge for being bullied in the past.
• Boosting social status or popularity.
• Personal or family issues.

Encourage students to share their thoughts about why people might act out online versus in person. How does anonymity play a role?

Consequences of Cyberbullying
Share the emotional and psychological impact of cyberbullying:

• Loss of self-esteem and confidence.
• Anxiety, stress, and sadness.
• Physical symptoms like headaches and stomach problems.
• Isolation from social activities and reluctance to attend school.

Golden Rules for Online Behavior
Conclude the session by sharing some golden rules for safe and respectful online communication:

• Always respect others’ feelings online.
• Remember that not everyone you meet online is who they say they are.
• If you receive a message that bothers you: STOP, BLOCK, and TELL.

Encourage students to follow these guidelines and remind them that they can always seek help from a trusted adult.

Conclusion and Reflection 

Wrap up the session by reflecting on the lessons learned:

• Ask students what strategies they feel more confident using to handle cyberbullying.
• What role does empathy play in supporting those who are bullied online?
• How can they apply what they learned in real-life situations?

Encourage students to think about how they can be part of the solution, whether it’s supporting a friend who is bullied or being more mindful of their online behavior.