Digital Citizen Academy

Complete Curriculum
Syllabus

Empowering schools and families to raise responsible digital citizens

Dr. Lisa Strohman, JD, PhDApril 2026
Overview

Curriculum At a Glance

26
Courses
133
Total Lessons
385+
Learning Objectives
401
Vocabulary Terms
K–12
Grades Covered
23+
Hours of Content
The Program

Three Curriculum Tracks

AI
AI FoundationsGrades K–12

Age-appropriate AI literacy from basic technology awareness to advanced ethics and machine learning applications.

13Courses65Lessons
DC
Digital CitizenGrades K–8

Core digital citizenship using the T.H.I.N.K. framework with interactive videos, vocabulary, and discussions.

13Courses68Lessons
TLC
TLC ProgramGrades 6–12

Leadership development transforming students into digital citizenship ambassadors through research and advocacy.

6Steps46Modules
AI
Curriculum Track

AI Foundations

Grades K–12

A comprehensive curriculum introducing artificial intelligence concepts from kindergarten through 12th grade, building progressively from technology awareness to hands-on machine learning.

13
Courses
65
Lessons
K–12
Grade Range
AI FoundationsK-AI · 5 Lessons

Kindergarten

Introduction to Technology

This program introduces kindergarten students to fundamental concepts of technology, focusing on developing basic understanding of what technology is and how it relates to their daily lives. Students explore simple technologies and begin learning essential digital citizenship skills through age-appropriate activities.

01
Technology in Our World
Identify simple technologies in daily life
02
Computer Basics
Identify basic parts of digital devices
03
Following Digital Instructions
Learn how machines follow step-by-step directions
04
Kind Technology Use
Develop skills for sharing and taking turns with technology
05
Safety Fundamentals
Identify when to seek adult help
AI FoundationsG1-AI · 5 Lessons

1st Grade

Thinking Like Computers

This program introduces first-grade students to computational thinking basics and algorithmic concepts. Students learn to recognize patterns, follow and create step-by-step instructions, and understand how digital helpers work. The course emphasizes developing healthy technology habits and balancing online and offline activities.

01
Algorithms in Daily Life
Recognize step-by-step instructions in routines
02
Introduction to Patterns
Identify and describe patterns in environment
03
Digital Helpers
Understand smart devices in homes and schools
04
Responsible Technology Time
Create healthy technology habits
05
Online/Offline Balance
Distinguish between digital and physical activities
AI FoundationsG2-AI · 5 Lessons

2nd Grade

Making Decisions with Technology

This program helps second-grade students understand how technology makes decisions and how they can be thoughtful digital citizens. Students explore simple decision trees, learn about AI assistants, evaluate digital information, and begin creating with technology. The course emphasizes responsible technology use and critical thinking.

01
Simple Decision Trees
Understand how yes/no questions lead to decisions
02
Introduction to AI Assistants
Identify common AI assistants
03
Digital Information Basics
Understand not all online information is true
04
Digital Citizenship Beginnings
Apply kindness rules to digital spaces
05
Technology Creation
Use technology to create something new
AI FoundationsG3-AI · 5 Lessons

3rd Grade

How Computers Learn

This program introduces third-grade students to machine learning concepts and responsible digital behavior. Students explore how computers learn from patterns and data, understand digital information collection and privacy, and develop critical thinking about their online presence. The course emphasizes problem-solving with technology and maintaining a positive digital footprint.

01
Teaching Computers
Introduction to machine learning through games
02
Digital Information Collection
Understand how and why digital data is collected
03
Smart vs. Not-Smart Technology
Distinguish between AI and regular technology
04
Digital Footprints
Understand online actions leave traces
05
Solving Problems with Technology
Use digital tools to address simple challenges
AI FoundationsG4-AI · 5 Lessons

4th Grade

AI in Our Communities

This program helps fourth-grade students understand AI applications in everyday environments and introduces ethical considerations. Students identify AI in their communities, explore how AI makes decisions and recommendations, and learn about potential biases in technology. The course emphasizes digital wellbeing, balanced technology use, and hands-on creation projects.

01
AI Around Us
Identify AI in everyday environments
02
How AI Makes Decisions
Understand algorithms and recommendations
03
Digital Balance and Wellbeing
Develop healthy technology habits
04
Introduction to Biases
Understand how AI might treat people differently
05
Tech Creation Project
Program simple AI-based interactive stories
AI FoundationsG5-AI · 5 Lessons

5th Grade

AI Ethics Foundations

This program develops fifth-grade students' understanding of the ethical dimensions of AI technology. Students explore automation and its impacts on work, learn about data privacy and protection, develop digital empathy, and build skills to identify misinformation. The course emphasizes responsible digital citizenship and prepares students to be thoughtful technology users.

01
AI Helpers and Workers
Understand automation and assistance roles
02
Data Privacy Basics
Learn about personal information protection
03
Digital Empathy
Consider how technology affects different people
04
Fact vs. Fiction in Technology
Introduction to misinformation and AI-generated content
05
Future Technology Citizens
Understand rights and responsibilities in digital spaces
AI FoundationsG6-AI · 5 Lessons

6th Grade

Understanding AI Systems

This program provides sixth-grade students with a deeper technical understanding of AI systems and responsible engagement practices. Students explore core AI and machine learning concepts, develop data literacy skills, understand algorithmic decision-making, and examine ethical considerations. The course emphasizes critical thinking about AI and protecting digital identity.

01
AI Fundamentals
Core concepts of artificial intelligence and machine learning
02
Data Literacy
Understand data collection, analysis, and interpretation
03
AI Decision-Making
How algorithms work to make recommendations and predictions
04
Ethical Considerations in AI
Understand fairness, bias, and equity in automated systems
05
Digital Identity Protection
Managing personal information in an AI world
AI FoundationsG7-AI · 5 Lessons

7th Grade

AI Across Disciplines

This program helps seventh-grade students understand how AI is applied across various fields and real-world contexts. Students explore AI applications in science and medicine, arts and creative expression, history and language, and environmental challenges. The course emphasizes design thinking and using AI tools to solve community problems.

01
AI in Science and Medicine
Applications in research, diagnosis, and treatment
02
AI in Arts and Expression
Creative tools, music generation, and digital art
03
AI in History and Language
Translation, preservation, and information analysis
04
Environmental AI
Climate modeling, conservation, and sustainability applications
05
Design Thinking with AI
Using AI tools to solve community problems
AI FoundationsG8-AI · 5 Lessons

8th Grade

Critical AI Engagement

This program develops eighth-grade students' advanced critical analysis skills for AI systems and prepares them as advocates for responsible technology. Students examine media literacy challenges in the AI age, understand privacy rights and data consent, analyze social media algorithms, and explore cross-cultural AI impacts. The course emphasizes leadership and advocacy for responsible AI.

01
Media Literacy in the Age of AI
Evaluating AI-generated content and deepfakes
02
AI and Privacy Rights
Understanding data collection, consent, and privacy laws
03
Social Media Algorithms
How recommendation systems shape information exposure
04
AI Advocacy and Leadership
Advocating for responsible AI in communities
05
Cross-Cultural AI Understanding
How AI impacts diverse communities differently
AI FoundationsG9-AI · 5 Lessons

9th Grade

AI Technical Foundations

This program introduces 9th-grade students to the technical foundations of artificial intelligence, providing hands-on experience while building critical thinking about AI systems they encounter in daily life. Each lesson combines technical knowledge with ethical considerations to develop well-rounded digital citizens.

01
Machine Learning Basics
How machines learn from patterns
02
Programming and AI
Basic Python syntax and structure
03
Data Analysis Fundamentals
Types of data (structured vs. unstructured)
04
AI System Components
Neural network architecture and function
05
Career Explorations in AI
Range of careers in AI development and implementation
AI FoundationsG10-AI · 5 Lessons

10th Grade

AI in Society

This program explores how artificial intelligence is transforming society, examining its applications across various sectors including healthcare, transportation, entertainment, and government. Students will develop critical thinking skills to evaluate AI's benefits and challenges while considering ethical implications and societal responsibilities.

01
AI in Healthcare
AI-powered medical imaging and diagnostics
02
AI in Transportation and Urban Planning
Autonomous vehicles and safety considerations
03
AI in Entertainment and Media
Content recommendation algorithms
04
AI in Government and Public Policy
AI in public services and administration
05
Building an AI-Ready Society
Digital literacy and AI education
AI FoundationsG11-AI · 5 Lessons

11th Grade

Advanced AI Applications

This advanced program provides students with deeper technical understanding of AI applications, including hands-on experience with machine learning frameworks, data science methodologies, and real-world problem-solving. Students will develop practical skills while exploring cutting-edge AI technologies and their applications.

01
Advanced Machine Learning Techniques
Deep learning architectures
02
Natural Language Processing Applications
Text preprocessing and tokenization
03
Computer Vision Projects
Image classification techniques
04
AI for Data Science
Predictive modeling and forecasting
05
Capstone: AI Solution Development
Problem identification and scoping
AI FoundationsG12-AI · 5 Lessons

12th Grade

AI Innovation and Leadership

This capstone program prepares students for leadership roles in the AI-driven future, combining advanced technical skills with entrepreneurship, ethics, and innovation. Students will develop comprehensive AI projects, explore career pathways, and prepare for higher education or industry opportunities in artificial intelligence.

01
AI Innovation and Entrepreneurship
AI startup ecosystem and trends
02
AI Ethics and Governance Leadership
AI ethics frameworks and principles
03
Research and Development in AI
Current AI research directions
04
AI Career Preparation
AI career landscape and opportunities
05
Senior Capstone: AI Leadership Project
Project leadership and management
DIGITAL
Curriculum Track

Digital Citizen

Grades K–8

Core digital citizenship education using the T.H.I.N.K. framework — Truthful, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary, Kind — with interactive video lessons, vocabulary building, and guided discussions.

13
Courses
68
Lessons
K–8
Grade Range
Digital CitizenK-IDC · 6 Lessons · 23 Vocabulary Terms

Kindergarten

Introduction to Digital Citizenship

01
Introduction to Digital Citizenship
6obj4vocab6min
02
"T" is for Truthful
5obj4vocab7min
03
"H" is for Helpful
5obj3vocab5min
04
"I" is for Inspiring
4obj4vocab6min
05
"N" is for Necessary
5obj4vocab7min
06
"K" is for Kind
4obj4vocab6min
Digital CitizenG1-IDC · 6 Lessons · 31 Vocabulary Terms

1st Grade

Introduction to Digital Citizenship

01
Introduction to Digital Citizenship
5obj5vocab7min
02
Truthful
5obj6vocab9min
03
Helpful
5obj4vocab8min
04
Inspiring
4obj5vocab7min
05
Necessary
7obj6vocab7min
06
Kind
4obj5vocab10min
Digital CitizenG2-IDC · 6 Lessons · 29 Vocabulary Terms

2nd Grade

Introduction to Digital Citizenship

01
Introduction to Digital Citizenship
6obj5vocab7min
02
Always be Truthful
4obj5vocab6min
03
Always Be Helpful
4obj4vocab6min
04
Be an Inspiring Friend
4obj4vocab6min
05
Only Do And Say What Is Necessary
6obj5vocab7min
06
Always Be Kind
5obj6vocab7min
Digital CitizenG3-IDC · 5 Lessons · 27 Vocabulary Terms

3rd Grade

Introduction to Digital Citizenship

01
Introduction to Digital Citizenship
4obj5vocab4min
02
Importance of Being Trustworthy
4obj5vocab7min
03
Kindness-Empathy-Respect
5obj6vocab7min
04
Think Before You Post
7obj6vocab7min
05
Protect Your Online Reputation
6obj5vocab7min
Digital CitizenG4-IDC · 5 Lessons · 31 Vocabulary Terms

4th Grade

Introduction to Digital Citizenship

01
Introduction to Digital Citizenship
4obj5vocab3min
02
Trustworthiness
4obj5vocab7min
03
Kindness
6obj8vocab11min
04
Responsible Posting
6obj6vocab9min
05
Digital Reputation
5obj7vocab8min
Digital CitizenG5-IDC · 5 Lessons · 34 Vocabulary Terms

5th Grade

Learn More About How To Be A Responsible Digital Citizen

01
Learn More About How To Be A Responsible Digital Citizen
5obj6vocab6min
02
Digital Citizens Make Good Choices
5obj6vocab8min
03
Kindness On and Offline
6obj8vocab8min
04
Be Responsible When Posting
7obj7vocab6min
05
Protect Your Digital Reputation
6obj7vocab6min
Digital CitizenG6-IDC · 5 Lessons · 41 Vocabulary Terms

6th Grade

Introduction to Digital Citizenship

01
Introduction to Digital Citizenship
4obj5vocab5min
02
Trustworthiness
5obj6vocab3min
03
Cyberbullying
4obj15vocab6min
04
Technology and The Brain
6obj8vocab7min
05
Gaming
5obj7vocab5min
Digital CitizenG7-IDC · 5 Lessons · 27 Vocabulary Terms

7th Grade

Introduction to Digital Citizenship

01
Introduction to Digital Citizenship
3obj4vocab2min
02
Cyberbullying
4obj5vocab11min
03
Inappropriate Posting
5obj5vocab8min
04
Digital Cheating
5obj5vocab5min
05
Digital Reputation
6obj8vocab12min
Digital CitizenG8-IDC · 5 Lessons · 26 Vocabulary Terms

8th Grade

Introduction to Digital Citizenship

01
Introduction to Digital Citizenship
3obj3vocab2min
02
Cyberbullying
4obj6vocab4min
03
Gaming
5obj5vocab5min
04
Hacking
5obj6vocab6min
05
Digital Reputation
3obj6vocab4min
Digital CitizenG9-DIR · 5 Lessons · 27 Vocabulary Terms

9th Grade

Digital Identity & Reputation

01
Your Digital Footprint & Digital Permanence
4obj5vocab7min
02
Building a Positive Digital Reputation
4obj5vocab6min
03
Privacy & Protecting Your Personal Data
4obj6vocab6min
04
Healthy Online Relationships & Boundaries
4obj5vocab7min
05
Cyberbullying & Becoming an Upstander
4obj6vocab7min
Digital CitizenG10-DWB · 5 Lessons · 35 Vocabulary Terms

10th Grade

Digital Wellbeing & the Attention Economy

01
Technology & the Teen Brain
4obj7vocab8min
02
Social Media & Mental Health
4obj7vocab7min
03
Technology Addiction & Finding Digital Balance
4obj7vocab7min
04
Comparison, Anxiety & Self-Image Online
4obj7vocab7min
05
Designing Healthy Digital Habits
4obj7vocab8min
Digital CitizenG11-ML · 5 Lessons · 34 Vocabulary Terms

11th Grade

Media Literacy & Critical Thinking

01
Misinformation, Disinformation & "Fake News"
5obj6vocab7min
02
Manipulated Media: Deepfakes, Filters & Editing
5obj7vocab7min
03
Algorithms, Echo Chambers & Filter Bubbles
5obj7vocab7min
04
Evaluating Sources & Fact-Checking
5obj7vocab7min
05
Advertising, Influencers & Sponsored Content
5obj7vocab7min
Digital CitizenG12-DCL · 5 Lessons · 36 Vocabulary Terms

12th Grade

Digital Citizenship for Life & Career

01
Managing Your Digital Presence for College & Career
4obj7vocab7min
02
Your Data, Privacy Rights & Digital Law
4obj9vocab7min
03
Ethics of AI & Emerging Technology
4obj7vocab7min
04
Online Security, Scams & Staying Safe
4obj7vocab7min
05
Becoming a Positive Digital Leader
4obj6vocab7min
TLC
Curriculum Track

TLC Program

Grades 6–12

A transformative leadership development program where students become digital citizenship ambassadors through research, campaign creation, and community advocacy.

6
Steps
46
Modules
6–12
Grade Range
01
TLC Program · Step 12-3 weeks · 6 modules · 60 pts · ~110 min

Digital Citizenship Basics

Learn the fundamentals of being a responsible digital citizen. Explore your digital footprint, understand online privacy, and develop healthy technology habits.

Learning Objectives
Understand the concept of a digital footprint
Identify responsible online behaviors
Develop strategies for healthy technology use
Recognize the importance of digital privacy
Deliverables
Digital Wellness Pledge
Personal Technology Goals
Digital Footprint Audit
02
TLC Program · Step 23-4 weeks · 12 modules · 200 pts · ~320 min

Field Work Hub

Become a research expert! Design surveys, practice ethical data collection, and gather real opinions from your community about issues that matter.

Learning Objectives
Design unbiased survey questions
Understand research ethics and consent
Conduct professional interviews
Collect quality data from diverse sources
Deliverables
Approved Research Survey
Consent Script
30+ Survey Responses
Bias Detective Certification
03
TLC Program · Step 33-4 weeks · 12 modules · 200 pts · ~335 min

Data Analysis Portfolio

Transform raw data into powerful insights! Sort responses, calculate percentages, identify patterns, and build evidence-based claims about your research.

Learning Objectives
Organize qualitative data using coding
Calculate and interpret percentages
Identify meaningful patterns in data
Build claims supported by evidence
Select a cause to advocate for
Deliverables
Completed Data Portfolio
Pattern Analysis Report
Evidence-Based Claims
Data Visualizations
Cause Selection with Justification
04
TLC Program · Step 43-4 weeks · 6 modules · 140 pts · ~255 min

Campaign Creation

Plan and build your advocacy campaign! Assemble your team, choose deliverables, and create compelling content to make your voice heard.

Learning Objectives
Organize effective teams with clear roles
Break complex projects into manageable tasks
Select appropriate media for your message
Create persuasive advocacy content
Deliverables
Campaign Team Structure
Project Plan
Selected Deliverables
Campaign Materials (posters, videos, presentations, etc.)
05
TLC Program · Step 52-3 weeks · 5 modules · 145 pts · ~225 min

Campaign Execution

Launch and run your campaign! Deploy your deliverables, track progress, document impact, and manage any challenges along the way.

Learning Objectives
Execute a planned campaign
Track and document activities
Adapt to challenges
Collect evidence of impact
Deliverables
Campaign Launch Documentation
Time Logs
Evidence Gallery
Issue Resolution Reports
06
TLC Program · Step 61-2 weeks · 5 modules · 125 pts · ~140 min

Reflection & Celebration

Celebrate your journey! Measure your impact, reflect on growth, create a guide for future students, and earn your TLC certification.

Learning Objectives
Quantify and analyze campaign impact
Reflect on personal transformation
Document lessons for future advocates
Celebrate achievements
Deliverables
Impact Analysis Report
Journey Reflections
Legacy Guide for Future Students
Final Portfolio Export
TLC Certificate
Thank You

Digital Citizen Academy

Prevention. Leadership. Intervention. Reinforcement.

Dr. Lisa Strohman, JD, PhDFounder & Director
info@digitalcitizenacademy.orghttps://digitalcitizenacademy.org
© 2026 Digital Citizen Academy · Confidential
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