internet safety

Discuss the importance of E-safety within an educational setting.

Children’s personal use of computers and the Internet has increased dramatically within recent years, with 99% of all children aged eight to seventeen using the Internet (Byron, 2008). Therefore, concern has arisen for the safety of children using the Internet unsupervised (Wishart, 2004).  This blog will outline some of the issues regarding Internet safety, drawing upon various sources to influence the discussion.

The DfES (2002) emphasises the issue of Internet safety for young users portraying some of the attitudes associated with it, stating that three quarters of parents claimed to be concerned for their children’s safety online. Interestingly, Wilshart (2004) suggests that due to parents being fearful towards the Internet, children often do not gain the full benefits of being online. However, there are risks involved with interacting online, which need to be addressed before children can safely engage with the Internet.

Wishart (2004) outlines children accessing unsuitable material as a key concern shared by both parents and teachers. Anastasiades and Vitalaki (2011) suggest that problems of this nature are more likely to occur outside of school, meaning that it is essential teacher’s are able to provide children with the knowledge to inform them of the dangers accompanying online use, as well as providing pedagogical guidance to assist children when navigating the Internet. Despite this, O’Connell, Sange and Barrow (2002) claim that there is a lack in the quality of Internet safety training within the UK, consequently leaving children ill equipped to safely manage challenging circumstances regarding encounters of inappropriate material online. Therefore, it could be argued that schools should ensure teachers are equipped with the necessary skills to deliver adequate Internet safety guidance.

Another significant problem children are exposed to online is securing their personal information (Wishart, 2004). Through using chat rooms and social networking sites, children are divulging extremely personal and private data such as their name, e-mail address and in some cases their mobile phone number and home address, leaving children vulnerable and at risk (Wishart, 2004).

Additionally, through using these aforementioned sites, children are also at risk of bullying (Campbell, 2005). Campbell (2005) continues to claim that cyber bullying has become increasingly prominent in today’s society, affecting many children. Fortunately, there are resources available to assist in dealing with cyber bullying, such as the bullying UK site. This site offers detailed definitions as well as clear and precise guidance for those affected by cyber bullying as well as the opportunity to share experiences.

As a result of these dangers, schemes such as ‘Net –detectives’, an Internet awareness programme aimed at nine to twelve year olds, has been launched (Wishart, 2007). This scheme utilizes a creative online role-play activity in an attempt to educate children about Internet safety in a motivating and challenging environment (Wishart, 2007).

To conclude, although the Internet may pose significant threat to children, with informed guidance, and the implementation of resources, the Internet can be a practical tool used to support children in their daily lives. Furthermore, to enhance my practice, I intend to explore other resources that could be used to encourage and promote the safe use of the Internet. 

Bibliography

Anastasiades, P. S., & Vitalaki, E. (2011). Promoting Internet Safety in Greek Primary Schools: the Teacher's Role. Educational Technology & Society, 14 (2), p.71–80.

BullyingUK. Available at: http://www.bullying.co.uk/cyberbullying/ [Accessed 28.03.2014]

Campbell, M. (2005). Cyber Bullying: An Old Problem in a New Guise?. Australian Journal of Guidance and Counselling. 15 (1), p68-76.

Department for Children, Schools and Family. (2003). The Bryon Review. Available at: http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20130401151715/https://www.education.gov.uk/publications/eOrderingDownload/Byron_Review_Action_Plan.pdf [Accessed on 28.03.2014]

Department for Education and Skills (DfES) (2002). Young people and ICT: findings from a survey conducted Autumn 2001. NGfL Research and Evaluation Series. No. 5. London: Becta.

O’Connell, R., Sange, S., Barrow, C. (2002). Young peopleÕs use of chat rooms. Implications for policy strategies and programs for education. Preston: University of Central Lancashire. Draft report, July 2002.

Wishart, J (2004). Internet safety in emerging educational contexts. Computers and Education. 43 (1) p.193-204

Wishart, J. (2007). Using online role play to teach internet safety awareness. Computers and Education. 48 (3), p.460-473.