Enlightenment Implementing the Educational Program “Digital Etiquette for Teens” in Sweden

From November 11, 2024 (Monday), CODA conducted a three-day PBL-based educational program, “Digital Etiquette for Teens,” at Balder High School in Skellefteå, Sweden. This program has been promoted by CODA since 2023 in Japan to foster an active understanding of content and copyright issues.
Balder High School is a public school in Västerbotten County, northern Sweden. It serves a culturally diverse student body, including those from Sweden, neighboring countries, Eastern Europe, and Africa. Students from various grades (1st to 3rd years) and courses participated in the “Digital Etiquette for Teens” program.

The program was translated into English by librarian Mr. Anton Söderlund at Balder High School and conducted in a mix of English and Swedish. The sessions were held in courses such as social sciences, technology, electrical and energy studies, and the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. During the classes, students actively engaged in quizzes, group discussions, and other activities included in the program. Their lively participation demonstrated keen interest in the topics presented.
Teachers from various courses gave very positive feedback. One teacher commented, “I think many students realized through this lesson that copyright is something that concerns all of us.” Another teacher remarked, “The students found it fascinating because it connected to their lives, and their reactions were excellent. Talking to them after the lesson, they seemed very grateful for the workshop.” A different teacher added, “I don’t think there are any specific suggestions for improving this program in Sweden—it’s already fantastic.”
Students also shared their thoughts, demonstrating a deep interest in and understanding of copyright and the issues related to infringement. One student noted, “The discussion about how far copyright applies, particularly in relation to AI art, was incredibly interesting.” Another said, “I learned that we should never share videos found online without permission.” A third student reflected, “The YouTuber I admire, who has millions of followers, might have had their work stolen if copyright didn’t exist.” Because of the school’s diverse student body, discussions also emerged after the lesson comparing how copyright is enforced in their home countries. Students from the United Kingdom, El Salvador, India, Turkey, and Sweden shared their perspectives, reflecting on the extent to which copyright is protected in each of their countries.

As an educational and awareness initiative aimed at proactively learning about piracy issues and content rights, CODA planned and developed this program for use in schools in 2023. Since then, the program has been implemented in schools across Japan. This marks the first time that a Japanese educational program has been applied in Sweden, a country renowned for its strong education system, advanced use of ICT (Information and Communication Technology), and emphasis on diversity and independence in education.
CODA remains committed to steadily advancing its efforts in content protection and anti-piracy measures within the digital society.

The Classroom Sessions ①
The Classroom Sessions ②
The Classroom Sessions ③

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About CODA
CODA (Content Overseas Distribution Association) was established in 2002 at the call of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and the Agency for Cultural Affairs to promote the overseas development of Japanese content and take anti-piracy measures. Japan’s proud content, including music, movies, anime, broadcast programs, video games, and publishing, plays an important role in enhancing the nation’s international presence and economic growth. As digital technology becomes more widespread, it is even more significant to protect Japan’s content from increasingly artful copyright infringement and promote the content industry’s development. CODA contributes to the deterrence and detection of online and other piracy, by sharing knowledge with relevant government agencies, organizations, and companies in Japan and abroad, to engage in direct and indirect anti-piracy measures, as well as public relations activities. Visit https://coda-cj.jp/en/activity/ for more information on CODA’s projects.

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