CYBERBULLYING IN THE LIGHT OF CHALLENGES OF SCHOOL-BASED PREVENTION

Abstract

The main goal of the paper is to present opinions about cyberbullying prevention in Poland in the light of teachers’ experiences. The authors show the current state of knowledge of electronic aggression and cyberbullying among the youths. They also present an overview of the difficulties educators face, the challenges and expectations of kids and youth regarding media prevention, as well as challenges related to the effectiveness of the modern, innovative prevention of risky behaviours. The study was conducted in the Pedagogical University of Cracow, in the first half of 2019, using a focus group method. The results provide new guidelines and findings which may be valuable for school practice and media pedagogy. The interviewed teachers declared that the effectiveness of the hitherto implemented preventive activities varies. They declared their need to develop their own digital literacy and were willing to participate in trainings focused on the practical aspects of anticipating cyberbullying and solving difficult cases (e.g. related to sexuality, image protection or attacking teachers via the Internet). The respondents admitted the necessity of joining efforts with police and local community institutions when solving the cyberbullying-related problems.

Keywords

• cyberbullying, prevention
• poland, teachers
• school
• teachers
• parents