In 6 Steps to Success in Teaching with Technology, we stated that, "no subject was of more concern than security, when developing a teaching with technology strategy for your classroom". We stressed the importance educating students, parents and teachers about their individual responsibilities and of developing clear standards for the use of technology in the classroom and in the schools.
Two factions of thinking are developing around the question of digital security in schools. Remember, digital security refers to any electronic tool being endorsed and utilized by the school and school board. This applies to board, school and teacher websites but also software use, emerging tools like e-testing as well as day to day student use of technology
One suggestion put forward is e-security must be extremely rigorous in all aspects of the schools' virtual community. This makes sense when looking at cyber attacks on school websites, privacy of pictures and information, cyberbullying and student physical and emotional security. How far do we go? One school I am aware now bans the use of Youtube by students because of some of its content. Youtube does have some questionable content but is it not also a magnificent research and creative tool for students. What should we do?
Another avenue of thinking, be more flexible with security when it comes to student research and communication. This group believes there needs to be more individual responsibility in digital security. Teachers, boards and especially parents need to teach students "digital responsibilities". Many of them have open access to the web elsewhere. They must be taught these e-rules and guidelines from the earliest age. They must be e-responsible as they must be in other areas of life such as when among strangers, watching TV, talking on the phone or visiting a library.
Lucas Kent is an experienced educator and author of 6 Steps to Success in Teaching with Technology which in now available on Amazon.com, Barnes&Noble.com and many other online bookstores.
His website http://MrKent.Net - Teaching with Technology Made Simple is designed to help schools and educators implement technology effectively into their educational practices.
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