New podcasting and fact sheet lessons geared towards year 5 and 6 classes are now available as part of the eSmart Digital Licence program. These engaging activities help learners develop media literacy skills, express their ideas, and build positive online habits — all while working towards earning their Digital Licence.
These lessons are the result of a co-design project undertaken with Year 5-6 learners at St Mary’s School, Whittlesea, in collaboration with their teacher, Mrs. Kayla Borg, STEM specialist and eSmart coordinator. Listen to their learner-led podcast here.
The new podcast and fact sheet lessons provide a meaningful opportunity for learners to develop essential digital literacy skills while promoting student voice and encouraging safe online behaviours in the broader school community. They are designed to align with each of the 4C risk areas in the eSmart Digital Licence program:
Content – Understanding harmful, misleading, or inappropriate content
Conduct – Promoting positive online behaviour
Compulsion – Managing screen time and building healthy habits
Contact – Responding to unwanted contact and setting boundaries
By creating a podcast or fact sheet, learners can apply their understanding of online safety in a practical and engaging way. These creative projects allow learners to:
- Develop storytelling and communication skills
- Think critically about digital content
- Raise awareness and promote positive online behaviours within their community
The eSmart Digital Licence is a FREE, curriculum-aligned online safety program supported by the Australian Government. To earn their Digital Licence, learners must complete four lessons — one for each risk area. These new podcast and fact sheet lessons provide flexible options that educators can include as part of the program.
Use the animated video and goal-setting activity to kick-start the learning journey.
Select a mix of lessons that cover each of the four risk areas — including the new podcast or fact sheet activities. See our Lesson plans page to explore the available lessons.
Once the four lessons are complete, learners receive a personalised eSmart Digital Licence as a symbol of their readiness to navigate the online world safely and responsibly.
The Quickstart Guide is available here to support planning and implementation. Schools are encouraged to explore these new resources and empower their learners to become informed, responsible digital citizens.
