Acceptable use Policy Importance-Debra M
The two articles this week speak about the importance of being aware of the potential and hidden dangers of the internet. The introduction of the internet has been a wonderful and valulable tool that has opened up a world of information to all people. It allows both young and old to research any topic with just a few clicks on the keyboard, and up pop numerous sites to research. In the past, prior to the introduction of the internet, our only option was to go the library and find books, often many years old, to research a topic, or find an encyclopedia, often too many years out of date, to find information about any given topic. Now, however with amazing speed whatever we want to know can easily be assessed. Teacher's can assign their students a topic, and along with library books and resources, students can research and gather information on the internet. However, along with this powerful tool, comes great dangers. All parties involved, parents, students, and teachers need to aware of these dangers.
The Acceptable Use Policy covered in the first article, speaks about the schools responsiblity to children and parents to make sure they are informed of how to appropriately and safely use the internet. As well as the boudaries associated using the internet at school. Parents and students often need to sign an agreement stating that they are informed of the correct and proper way to use the internet at school, in addition to the disciplinary actions if it discovered that it has been used inappropriately. Many schools have students complete a class on computer responsiblity prior to be allowed to use school computers.This is a very good idea. Boundaries should be established first, so it is clear what the expectations are in regards to using school computers.
Schools can limit students to strictly researching and using the internet for educational purposes. Students should be aware of the dangers the internet possess, and to report any sites or contact that is unacceptable. Computers can be safe if used carefully and respectfully.
The second article addressed specifically safety on the internet. It is a guide directed at parents to help them to be aware of how to make the computer a safer tool. It informs parents that the internet is a useful tool, but it also comes with dangers to their child such as, cyberbullying, online predator, and the exploitation of children. Being aware of these dangers helps parents to install filters and monitors to help protect their child. These measures are not full proof, but they do help in protecting unwanted solitations.
As with anything, education and research is key. To be aware of the dangers and how to protect your child is of the upmost concern. Teachers need to be fully aware of all the dangers as well, since they are overseeing their students activities for 6 hours each school day. Teachers need to have clear classroom manangment procedures strictly in place since the first day of school, and enforce any violiations of these procedures.
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