Technology has changed the way students learn and access information. Students around the world can tap in to news stories, see minute-by-minute earthquakes, and interact with others students with the click of a mouse. Technology makes for exciting times in education , but what happens when the "dark side of technology" sneaks around the corner and into the classroom?
The top three safety solutions in 'Keeping Kids Safe in the World of Technology' are Education, Supervision, and Software." (Uhrenholt, Linda. (1998). Keeping Kids Safe!)
Many sites appear to be good on the surface until you hit a link that goes somewhere you don't want your students to visit. Organizations like the Internet Content Rating Association and SafeSurf have developed rating systems as a means to keep the Internet safe for kids and parents. However, very few sites are using these rating systems.
Content Rating Sites
Internet Content Rating Association
The Internet Content Rating Association is an international, independent organization that allows Web authors to fill out a questionaire describing the content of their site. ICRA generates a content label that can be added to the site. Details are provide on the site.
The SafeSurf Rating Standard is a voluntary rating system designed to protect children, as well as the first amendment rights of their parents.
Saftey Rules
Other organizations like the Federal Trade Commission, the FBI, and National Center for Missing and Exploited Children have created Web sites for kids and their parents. These sites include safety tips for kids about what information they should not provide to strangers and suggestions for parents when talking with their child.
Based on classic Disney charaters, children learn valuable lessons about online saftey. Fun for the whole family.
Comprehensive curriculum designed for teachers and parents is presented in an easy to use format. The content covers appropriate use of the Internet, property rights, ethics, and Website evaluation.
GetNetWise is a public service brought to you by Internet industry corporations and public interest organizations to help ensure that families have safe, constructive, and educational or entertaining online experiences. The GetNetWise coalition wants Internet users to be just "one click away" from the resources they need to make informed decisions about their family's use of the Internet. GetNetWise is a project of the Internet Education Foundation. In addition to the standard safety guide and parental tools, a much needed guide to how and where to report any trouble encountered on the Internet.
The Federal Trade Commission has created a Website for parents and kids with loads of tips on safety and privacy issues.
Founded in 1998, i-SAFE America provides Internet safety information and knowledge to students, parents, and everyone in the community in a variety of ways.
Outline of safety tips for the Internet and other areas of kids' lives.
The NetSmartz Workshop is an educational resource for children of all ages, parents and teachers on how to stay safer on the Internet. The NetSmartz Workshop features age-appropriate, interactive games and activities that utilize the latest web technologies to entertain while they educate. High-end Compaq workstations power the Compaq/NetSmartz Studio and utilize audio and video streaming along with the latest web technologies to ensure every child is prepared to avoid the risks they may encounter while online.
Parents Guide to Internet Safety
A handbook published by the FBI.
Larry Magid's home page for child safety on the Internet.
SafetyEd International is a non-profit organization.On this website you will find a huge amount of original materials and resources aimed at helping you enjoy cyberspace safely.
Help Mickey and his friends on Internet safety adventures.
