The rise of digital communication has brought significant benefits to education, enabling students to access knowledge, collaborate, and stay connected. However, it has also introduced new risks, with cyberbullying becoming a serious concern in Sri Lankan schools.
As children and teenagers spend more time online, cyberbullying—bullying that occurs through digital platforms like social media, messaging apps, and gaming communities—has become increasingly common. For teachers, recognizing and addressing this issue is crucial in creating a safe learning environment for students, both online and offline.
What is Cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying refers to the use of digital technology to harass, threaten, or humiliate someone. Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying can happen anytime, anywhere, and often leaves a permanent digital footprint.
Some common forms of cyberbullying include:
- Harassment – Sending repeated hurtful messages, threats, or offensive comments.
- Spreading false information – Posting rumors, fake news, or edited images to damage someone’s reputation.
- Impersonation – Hacking or creating fake profiles to deceive or harm a student.
- Public shaming – Sharing private or embarrassing information without consent.
- Exclusion – Deliberately leaving someone out of online groups, chats, or discussions.
In Sri Lanka, where social media usage is widespread among students, cyberbullying often takes place on Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, and TikTok, making it difficult for teachers and parents to detect.
Signs That a Student May Be Experiencing Cyberbullying
Teachers play a critical role in identifying signs of cyberbullying, as students may be reluctant to speak up due to fear, shame, or lack of awareness. Some indicators that a student may be a victim include:
- Sudden changes in behavior – Becoming withdrawn, anxious, or depressed.
- Avoiding school or social interactions – Fear of attending classes or reluctance to engage in group activities.
- Drop in academic performance – Difficulty concentrating, loss of interest in studies.
- Frequent device avoidance or overuse – Either refusing to check their phone or constantly monitoring social media for negative messages.
- Emotional distress after using digital devices – Becoming visibly upset, frustrated, or nervous after being online.
Similarly, teachers should also be mindful of students who may be engaging in cyberbullying behaviors and take steps to address them early.
How Teachers Can Address Cyberbullying in Schools
1. Educate Students on Responsible Online Behavior
The best way to combat cyberbullying is through education and awareness. Teachers should integrate digital literacy lessons that cover:
- The impact of cyberbullying on mental health.
- The importance of empathy and respectful online communication.
- The consequences of cyberbullying, including school disciplinary actions and legal repercussions.
2. Establish a Safe and Open Classroom Environment
Students need to feel comfortable discussing their concerns. Encourage open conversations about online safety and remind students that they can seek help without fear of judgment or punishment.
Creating anonymous reporting channels within the school can also help students feel safer when speaking up about cyberbullying incidents.
3. Promote Positive Online Engagement
Encouraging students to use technology positively can help reduce online conflicts. Activities such as:
- Classroom discussions on digital citizenship.
- Workshops on ethical social media use.
- Student-led initiatives that promote kindness online.
These strategies can shift the culture towards a more respectful and inclusive digital environment.
4. Set Clear Guidelines and Policies on Cyberbullying
Schools should implement and enforce anti-cyberbullying policies that outline:
- What constitutes cyberbullying.
- The disciplinary actions for offenders.
- The support available for victims.
Teachers should ensure students are aware of these policies and encourage them to report any incidents.
5. Respond Effectively to Cyberbullying Cases
When a cyberbullying incident occurs, it is crucial for teachers to act swiftly and appropriately.
Steps to take:
- Listen and document – Gather evidence, including screenshots and messages.
- Provide support – Assure the victim that they are not alone and that steps will be taken to resolve the issue.
- Involve parents and school authorities – Address serious cases with the help of parents, counselors, or disciplinary committees.
- Report extreme cases – If the cyberbullying involves threats, exploitation, or criminal behavior, report it to relevant authorities such as the National Child Protection Authority (1929) or the IWF Sri Lanka Reporting Portal (https://report.iwf.org.uk/lk_en).
Preventing Cyberbullying for a Safer School Environment
While cyberbullying cannot be eliminated overnight, consistent efforts from teachers, parents, and school administrators can help reduce its impact. By fostering digital literacy, empathy, and awareness, schools can create an environment where students feel safe, respected, and empowered to navigate the online world responsibly.
At Kidssafe, we are committed to equipping educators with the knowledge and resources needed to combat cyberbullying and promote child safety online. Let’s work together to ensure that every student in Sri Lanka can learn, grow, and thrive in a safe digital environment.
