Between October and November, I had the opportunity to participate in a training program that changed my approach to the digital world: the “Smartphone License” project.
It was an interesting journey, including hours of online learning, a day in person, and a practical session at the end of December, when I began sharing the knowledge I’d acquired with the students.
The course was divided into three core modules, each offering a unique contribution:
- ARPA Piemonte
- Polizia Postale
- ASL Torino 5
Thanks to the preparation and availability of the trainers, in just a few hours I learned countless aspects of the digital world, from dangers and pitfalls to the most effective protection methods.
However, the real added value of this experience was the opportunity to share what I’d learned with the students. I saw them attentive, with their notebooks ready to write, pens in hand, and above all, lots of questions. Their curiosity was palpable; they were eager for a lesson that was different from the usual science and math explanations.
I began with the part about the postal police. I began with a provocative question: “Did you know that everything you post online, from Facebook to Instagram, from TikTok to WhatsApp statuses, is forever preserved, even if you decide to delete it?” I continued explaining that, thanks to artificial intelligence, anyone can take their published photos and use them as they please. The same goes for their videos or their voices. Or pictures of their children posted by their parents. I explained that anyone could be hiding behind the innocuous profile of “nice Giovanni, who goes to agricultural school and is 15 years old.”
The discussion shifted to a sensitive but extremely important topic: intimate photos and videos. I firmly reiterated that they should never be shared online, as they can lead to blackmail or publication without consent.
At first, they listened, took notes, and discussed how much time they actually spend on social media each day. Then we talked about cyber scams via email or WhatsApp, and they began to open up, sharing what had happened to their parents, grandparents, uncles, and then even to themselves. Many of them had their profiles open “to receive friend requests,” and some had even met “the famous Giovanni who went to agricultural school.”
This often overlooked but crucial information sparked numerous reactions and discussions among the students, demonstrating the importance of addressing these topics clearly and simply.
An hour or two a week will be dedicated to continuing the training until the end of the year. We’ll discuss radiation, sustainable consumption, the volume of headphones and earphones, and the best place to keep your smartphone while sleeping.
The more dynamic part of the course will focus on watching videos related to cyberbullying, with the students then divided into groups. They will identify with the characters to gain a broader perspective and understand what lies behind each action and reaction.
The training has certainly enriched my knowledge, but, in return, it has also kindled a light in the eyes of the children who, involved in discussions about their world, will from now on be more protected and perhaps more attentive.
