In this learning scenario, students will explore the differences between online and face-to-face communication through the story of a character from the Cat Park game. The character gains fame in a new town through viral posts but must navigate the challenges of online communication, including the impact of anonymity and public perception. The scenario will encourage students to reflect on their online interactions and how they differ from in-person communication. The focus will be on responsible online behavior, managing digital identity, and understanding the consequences of online actions.
| Title | Online vs. Face-to-Face Communication |
| Creator | Dimitra Dimitrakopoulou |
| Main Idea / Description | In this learning scenario, students will explore the differences between online and face-to-face communication through the story of a character from the Cat Park game. The character gains fame in a new town through viral posts but must navigate the challenges of online communication, including the impact of anonymity and public perception. The scenario will encourage students to reflect on their online interactions and how they differ from in-person communication. The focus will be on responsible online behavior, managing digital identity, and understanding the consequences of online actions. |
| Target Group (students’ age, learning level, background, disabilities) | Students aged 15 years old |
| Curriculum & Learning Subjects | Computer Science |
| Competencies | KnowledgeUnderstanding the differences between online and face-to-face communicationRecognizing the consequences of online fame and digital actionsDeveloping responsible online communication habitsLearning how to manage one’s digital identitySkillsCritical thinkingDigital media literacyCollaboration |
| Teachers’ Wellness Competencies | Emotional e-awarenessE-self -managementSocial e-competencyEmotional leadership |
| Learning Scenario Framework | |
| Pedagogical Method | Project-based Learning, Game-based learningEmphasizing strengths (T1. Lean on your strengths and have a positive mindset)Relationships support (T4.Support and work well with others)Encouraging engagement (Engage students in self-directed and dedicated learning)Goal-oriented learning (T7. Be persistent and work toward your goals) |
| Software & Materials | Computers or tablets with internet accesshttps://padlet.com/Cat Park |
| Evaluation Tools | Engagement in class discussions, relevance of their contributions, and ability to reflect on their own experiences. |
| Learning Scenario Implementation | |
| Learning Activities (Description, duration, worksheets….) | Description: This lesson plan explores the differences between online and face-to-face communication, guiding students through a series of activities that enhance their understanding of digital identity and responsible online behavior. Through gameplay in Cat Park, discussions, and reflective tasks, students analyze the impact of online fame, compare it with in-person interactions, and consider the consequences of online actions. Game session: Playing Cat Park with Focus on Online Fame (25-30 minutes):Introduce the character from Cat Park, discussing that he is new to the town and has become famous through his online posts. Let students play the game, focusing on how the character’s online fame impacts his relationships and whether the character overcomes digital communication’s complexities. Encourage students to note how the character’s online persona might differ from who he is in real life.Post-game activities: (15 minutes)After gameplay, facilitate a discussion: Highlight how online actions, even something as simple as a post, can have long-lasting effects on one’s reputation and relationshipsHow do you think the character’s fame online impacted his real-life interactions?What are some differences between the way people communicate online and in person?Have you ever experienced a situation where someone’s online personality differed from his in person?Reflection Activity (20 minutes):Use Padlet for a reflective activity where students can anonymously post their thoughts on how they’ve experienced differences between online and in-person communication. Also, they should create guidelines for successful online communication. They should answer questions like:How do I want to be seen online?How do I ensure that my digital identity reflects who I am in real life? |