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Kids and teens on the Net
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Article: Kids and teens on the Net (PDF)
Objectives
- To examine what types of children have home access to the Internet and what they use it for
- To discuss concerns about risks
- To discuss how the Internet has changed lives.
Method
- Take a quick poll of the class to determine what proportion of the group uses the Internet at home? What proportion uses the Net at locations other than school or home? In an average day how much time do they spend on the Internet?
- What are the impediments to using the Internet at home?
- Statistics show that there is a digital divide in Internet access where children from lower-income families are less likely to have access at home. Does access at school and public libraries compensate for no access at home? Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of access from home, school, and libraries.
- Discuss if boys' and girls' Internet use differs and, if yes, how?
- Do parents monitor children's use of the Net while at home? Do parents influence this use?
- Poll the class to determine what proportion have come across Internet content that promoted hate or violence. How did they deal with this situation? Discuss what would be a suitable response.
- Discuss privacy and security concerns about using the Internet. Has anyone discussed these issues with you? (parent, teacher, librarian, etc.)
- Discuss how the Internet has changed your life. How has it affected the time you spend on other activities, your schooling, interaction with others and your mental and physical health?
Please e-mail comments or examples of how you used this exercise in your class.
