DIGITAL EDUCATION IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL AS A STRATEGY FOR PREVENTING CYBERCRIMES

Abstract

This article aimed to analyze digital education in elementary school as a tool for preventing illicit conduct in the virtual environment, considering its relationship with the institutional, psychological, and legal elements that influence student behavior. To this end, a qualitative, exploratory approach was adopted, developed through a literature review based on scientific articles, academic works, and Brazilian legislation relevant to the topic. Data analysis was performed using content analysis techniques, allowing the identification of patterns, limitations, and possibilities present in educational practices and the legal framework. The results indicated that, although digital technologies are widely integrated into the school context, their use is still poorly structured in terms of critical thinking and awareness of responsibilities in the virtual environment. A disconnect was also found between legal guidelines and pedagogical practices, which compromises the effectiveness of digital education as a preventive strategy. It is concluded that the connection between education and law is fundamental for the formation of more conscious individuals, and it is necessary to strengthen institutional policies and pedagogical practices that integrate the use of technologies with normative requirements.