An education-based approach to aid in the prevention of cyberbullying

In this paper, we outline a multi-faceted technological approach for addressing the problem of cyberbullying, focussing on actions which can be taken within educational institutions, for students in elementary and secondary schools. Our proposals include a specific program to introduce in schools, one that will engage students to discourage cyberbullying. This is accompanied by a few distinct approaches for analyzing data within online social networks, which may help to identify potential victims and bullies, resulting in additional insights for students. We discuss as well other parties who can partner with educational institutions in curtailing cyberbullying, notably ones who can assist in providing safer social networking environments. We conclude with a reflection on the responsibility of all individuals, learning from student years through to adulthood, inspired by lessons revealed from our reflections on this important topic.