Internet+Safety

[] In this article, Joe Sullivan, Facebook’s chief security officer talks about some new security features including a one-time password that can be when accessing your account in a public place where you believe someone might discover your password. He also discusses the importance of Internet safety and parental monitoring, especially for young users.
 * "Facebook Rolls Out New Security Tools, Talks Safety"** -Doug Gross, CNN

Since so many students have a Facebook account and spend a large amount of their online time there the implications of these new safety concerns are huge. I think it is a very good thing that Facebook is trying to create safer ways to enjoy their service. However, since these safety services are all optional, it is up to parents and teachers as well to encourage students to make use of them.

**"In a Wired World, Children Unable to Escape Cyberbullying"** -Stephanie Chen, CNN [] This article dicusses the effects of cyberbullying. It includes the National Crime Prevention Council's definition of cyberbullying - what happens when teens use the internet, cell phones, or other devices to send or post text or images intended to hurt or embarrass another person. Many students who are cyberbullied become severely depressed and some may even commit suicide. Next, the article mentions some measures that are being taken to reduce cyberbullying, such as Facebook's monitoring and that of another site, WebKinz. Schools are also closely monitoring Internet activity within their reach. The article also mentions that students should stand up and report abuse even though it may be hard.

Bullying is something that teachers will deal with daily whether in person or online. Knowing how to interact with children who bully and who are bullied is a skill worth honing. The most obvious thing a teacher can do, even without school-wide bullying programs, etc., is to monitor student use of technology and the Internet. It is very important to realize the magnitude of something like this.

[] In the article, Neumeier talks about the safety measures he has put in place in his own home. These measures do involve a filtering software, but most importantly they are about parental monitoring and supervision. All Internet interactions take place in the public rooms of the house and if a site is ever block or something unsavory makes it through the filter then there is discussion between parents and children.
 * "5 Steps to a Family-Safe Internet"** -Russ Neumeier, GeekDad, Wired.com

Although this article focuses on Internet use in the home the rules still apply for school. The school system may, and probably does, have some type of filtering device installed. However, these devices do not always catch all threats, nor are they teaching Internet safety. It is the responsibility of the parent (in the home) and the teacher (at school) to make sure children know and practice safe habits online. Having computers located in a public area for anyone to see is a really good idea to keep students accountable.

[] The five resolutions are these - 1. I will check my privacy settings for ALL my websites, phones, gadgets, etc. 2. I will remember there is no "one size fits all" solution for my privacy settings. 3. I will demand accountability from Internet Companies and Members of Congress in regards to protecting my privacy online. 4. I will think twice and post once. 5. I will "drive responsibly" on the Internet. These are all explained further in the article which emphasizes being responsible online.
 * "Five New Year's Resolutions for the Responsible Internet User"** -Ken Denmead,GeekDad, Wired.com

Each of these resolutions are great advice to give to students. Additionally teachers ought to practice them as well. I think oftentimes we think Internet is confined to computers, but it is available through so many different devices. Also, though it is not the easiest thing to do, everyone should read the safety and security policies held by the sites and companies they use. Often this can protect your information with only one step.

[] This article discusses the mandated Internet safety curriculum in Virginia. VA was the first state to require this in 2007. The article tells of the reactions of students to the new law and about social networking safety. At the end, a list of safety tips for kids and parents is included. Although some may think of these things as common sense, others take no thought about them.
 * "Back to School: Reading, Writing and Internet Safety"** -Adam Hochberg, NPR

The list of safety tips in this article would be a great instructional tool. This article is a very good resource for teaching students Internet safety. The article also shows the concern of educators and legislators for student safety in the schools. I believe I would use these tips and suggestions in my classroom.

[] The Federal Trade Commission discusses a "do not track" mechanism similar to the do not call registry. This mechanism would allow people to opt out of specialized advertising that is a result of information collection. The main goal of this mechanism is to prevent companies or third parties from tracking the actual activities of Internet users.
 * "F.T.C. Backs Plan to Honor Privacy of Online Users"** -Edward Wyatt and Tanzina Vega, NY Times

By prohibiting companies and third parties from having access to your information you would be safer online. This increased safety would allow teachers to incorporate more technology in the classroom without fear of student information getting into the wrong hands.

[] This article discusses the features of a new collaboration tool for students. These tools are specifically designed to help meet ISTE standards and keep students safe. These tools include safe, filtered emails and dropboxes as well as other collaborative tools.
 * "Security Expert Gaggle Releases New Online Tools for K-12 Students to Communicate Safely"** -submitted by Julie Gates, eschoolnews.com

Incorporating these tools in the classroom would help teachers feel comfortable using technology and the Internet in their lessons.