Internet Safety Reflection

The internet could be a very useful, and effective educational tool. Though, at the same time, it could also be a very harmful tool if misused and abused.

Educationally, no matted what suibject you are stuyding, you could find a plethora of sites that will give you information on what you would like to know. Though, when looking and researching on the internet, I strongly encourage that you research your topic elsewhere, before you research it on the internet. You want to have a basic knowledge of the topic before so that you could start to form and idea of what you are looking for. Also, this will help you in deciphering whether or not, the site that you are looking at is a reputable one.

It is very important to evaluate the site that you are researching for information. Be very carfeful, you do not want to be mislead with your information. Remember, you want to have a quality education, be smart of where you get your information from. When, deciding whether or not the site you are reading is reputable, ask yourself a few questions:

1. Is the webpage authentic?

- Check the date it was created or updated.

- Are there citations or a bibliography?

- Are their scholastic reviews for this particular site?

2. Do you have prior knowledge about the topic that you are researching?

3. Is the site you are visiting, "Fact-based" or "Opinion-based?"

4. Is the grammar & spelling of this site correct?

5. Have you applied the, "5 W's?"

6. Is the site information detailed?

7. Is there contact information for the author available on the webpage?

8. Where was this site published? (URL)

Asking these questions will help you decide whether or not you want to use this site to learn more about your topic.

As parent and teachers, we need to be on top of what our chidlren are surfing on the web. The web is a very powerful influence, whether it be good, or bad. I would assume that we all prefer it being a good influence on our children. As educaters, and parents. Be aware of the tools that are available to you on your computer and internet browser. Especially the parental controls.

It is very important that we teach our young students how to use the internet properly and how not to abuse it. To be able to do this effectively, we need to make sure that we are up to date on the in's and out's of internet safety ourselves. Also, we must not forget to be a good example for our children when it comes to our internet usage as well.

Personally, I love the internet. I have been able to use it to advance in my education and career. It helps me to be able to visit and chat with my brothers and sisters, and parents that are thousands of miles away. It has many, many good uses. As long as the internet is used to benefit your education and personal life in a good way, it is a very useful resource.