Learners today spend a large part of their daily lives online. Many use cell phones and other electronic devices for schoolwork, research, and communication with teachers. While these tools support learning, they also expose learners to social media and online platforms at an early age. This makes online safety a conversation that deserves urgent and ongoing attention.
As learners move between educational platforms and social media, the line between learning and public exposure becomes blurred. In South Africa, there has been a growing trend of teachers sharing classroom moments on platforms like TikTok. These videos often show how learners engage in lessons, and in some cases, teachers even participate in dance challenges with their students. While this may appear fun and relatable, it also raises serious concerns. Once these videos are online, they can be shared widely beyond the intended audience. In some cases, viewers can identify the school, the location, or even specific learners. This kind of exposure can place learners at risk and removes their control over their own digital presence.
A concerning example is a widely reported incident that happened in March in George, where a teacher recorded and shared a classroom video in which learners were given pies, but one learner was left out. The video was shared online and quickly gained attention. The child involved was exposed to humiliation. Incidents like this show how quickly content can spread and how a single post can affect a child’s dignity and emotional well-being. This type of exposure is not limited to teachers sharing content. There have also been reports of learners recording teachers without their consent and posting those videos on social media, often to mock or embarrass them. This behaviour not only affects a teacher’s professional reputation but may also violate the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), which is designed to protect personal information and privacy. Sharing identifiable images or videos without consent can have serious legal consequences.
Online bullying also remains one of the most harmful aspects of learners’ digital experiences. Learners may be targeted through hurtful comments and rumours. There have been cases where online bullying has led to severe emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and even suicide, among learners.
To navigate the online world safely, learners need clear guidance. They should be educated about digital citizenship, consent, and the legal implications of sharing content online. They should also be taught to think carefully before posting or sharing content and to understand that online actions can have real consequences.
Protecting learners in an online world requires a shared effort. Parents should set boundaries around device use and monitor online activity to reduce risks. Schools also have an important responsibility to enforce clear and strict policies on the use of digital devices and the sharing of content.
By raising awareness and promoting responsible behaviour, we can help ensure that learners are safe, respected, and supported in the digital spaces they use every day.