As adolescents between the ages of 12 and 15 increasingly engage with the online world, it becomes essential to recognize the unique challenges they face and adapt our cybersafety teachings accordingly. During this stage, young people are exploring their identities and seeking independence, often encountering a broader range of online activities and platforms. By tailoring our teachings to this age band, we can address their specific needs and concerns about the cyber issues they face everyday.

Instructing 12 to 15 year olds

• Use relatable examples and real-life scenarios. Incorporate examples that resonate with your students’ experiences to make the content more engaging and relevant. 

• Encourage peer interaction. Facilitate group activities and discussions, allowing students to learn from each other’s experiences and perspectives. Students in this age group may feel self-conscious to voice out issues for fear of shame, bullying, or being blamed. Promoting a sense of camaraderie and shared responsibility amongst the ambassadors will help create a safer online environment. 

• Remember that their online world is different to your own. Recognise that a young teen’s digital experience operates very differently than that of an adult’s. Be mindful of the assumptions you make of their online worlds. Instead, ask  students to share their personal experiences in open and safe discussions. 

• Understand their cognitive development. Adolescents in this age group are developing more sophisticated thinking skills. They are starting to think more abstractly, reason logically, and draw conclusions from the information they receive. 

• Provide guidance and support. While promoting independence, also provide guidance and support. This can be done by offering clear instructions, providing feedback, and being available for questions or concerns.

• Respect their opinions. Adolescents in this age group are developing their own identities and opinions. Show respect for their ideas and encourage open, respectful debates.

• Recognise social and emotional changes. This age group is navigating through significant social and emotional changes. Peer relationships become increasingly important, and there's a growing desire for independence. Be respectful of their growing autonomy and provide opportunities for collaboration and peer learning.