So how do we make the internet safe for
children and young people?
The answer to this question, according to the Federal Government's
Communications Minister Stephen Conroy is through mandatory
internet filtering. And, its a compelling argument for all of those
parents out there who worry about what trouble their sons and
daughters might get into whilst "hanging out" online.
However, government-imposed restrictions that are heavy-handed
aren't the magic bullet needed to protect children - especially
tech-savvy children who can easily circumvent the filtering system.
In fact, there is mounting evidence that suggests the most
effective way to make the internet safe for children is
education.
Children, young people, teachers and parents all need to
understand the potential dangers of Internet use. And lets be
honest, there are dangers for all of us when using the Internet,
such as cyberbullying, profile
hacking, misuse of personal
information and viruses and spyware. However,
there are easy and common sense ways to protect yourself, and
students, from these dangers.
The best way to protect students from harm is to teach them to
protect themselves. We must teach them how to safely navigate the
internet. We do this by assisting and guiding them in the first
instance, teaching them how to identify and avoid the dangers, and
what to do if an unsafe situation occurs. As they mature, we allow
them greater freedom.
Throughout this process, teachers have a responsibility to be good
role models. They need to monitor content accessed by students in
class, listen to their concerns and demonstrate responsible
internet use themselves.
The danger of implementing a broad-brush filter is that it might
lull the community, particularly parents and teachers, into a false
sense of security, incorrectly assuming their children will be
protected from harm and that there is no need for vigilant
monitoring. Likewise, students would not be empowered to learn
responsible internet use and how to respond in the face of
danger.
The lack of evidence to support the efficacy of the Government's
planned internet filter suggests that the money could be better
spent on internet safety education for
students, an investment that will offer children greater
protection online and offline.
But what do you think? Can an Internet filter work? Have you worked
in a school system that has Internet filtering? What are your
experiences of working under a filter? Share your experiences and
thoughts with the community.
Join the discussion now ...