We have been learning about internet safety.
As was discussed in class, one of the most important things we can do is to be honest and willing to discuss sensitive issues with our students. The internet has much good to offer, but we need to help students navigate it safely and credibly and also teach them what is appropriate and what isn't. Instructing students to search for reliable information is crucial--I want to help my students avoid citing misinformation so they can back up their arguments in the papers they will write. Teaching them to give credit where credit is due by citing their sources is also important.
It is too bad that bullying can now enter students' homes through social networking sites, email, and texting. Teaching students what qualifies as cyber bullying and to tell their parents or other trusted adult if/when cyber bullying takes place is a good place to start. Discussing the dangers of sexting may be uncomfortable but they need to be addressed so that students are aware and can protect themselves from being charged with distribution of child pornography, or with possession of child pornography.
Creating a teaching environment where students feel safe is mandatory if I want to discuss these issues in a non-embarrassing and open way. From day one in the classroom, I want my students to know that I care about them and their safety in the real and technological worlds.
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