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How moral education can make the digital world a better place

How do we help make sure kids are prepared to be polite, not just in the offline world but also online?

Being 'famous' or 'popular' is no longer limited to Hollywood stars since YouTube was launched over a decade ago. Now, celebrities - such as Kylie Jenner, Miley Cyrus and Kendall Jenner - befriend and follow well-known YouTubers because they know their products will reach a much wider audience if they are to be promoted by these social media influencers.
But being a social media user isn't easy, especially when 'fame' comes along with it as one gains millions of followers.
In the UAE, specifically, remember the teen YouTuber who was mocked worldwide for her highlighter look? She was rudely being called a 'glazed donut' and made headlines worldwide. Or just take the recent drama with James Charles, Tati Westbrook and Jeffree Star - popular YouTubers exchanging harsh words towards each other via their online channels.
It's not easy growing up in a digital world. But how do we help make sure kids are prepared to be polite, not just in the offline world but also online?
The UAE has rolled out a moral education programme across all schools, and pupils take actual exams that quiz them on how to behave morally online.
Students, parents and teachers have shared their thoughts with Khaleej Times on whether moral education can really help in today's digital world.
sarwat@khaleejtimes.com