Hand in Hand: Media Literacy and Internet Safety

Linworth Publishing, Inc. 480 East Wilson Bridge Road Suite L, Worthington, OH 43085. Tel: 614-436-7107; e-mail: linworth@linworthpublishing.com; Web site: http://www.linworth.com/lmc/

N

2

Internet; Safety; Media Literacy

1542-4715

Internet safety cannot be effectively taught without also teaching media literacy. The two go hand in hand, and both are necessary, but neither is sufficient. To understand why, it is important to first appreciate what the real risks to children are. Many of the early Internet safety programs were based on a fear of predators. Predators turned out to be a far less prevalent danger than was originally thought. The Federal Trade Commission and other organizations group the digital dangers kids face into three broad categories: (1) inappropriate contact; (2) content; and (3) conduct. The author argues that if children are to identify, avoid, and protect themselves from inappropriate contact, content, and conduct, filters aren't enough. They need media literacy skills. If children are to act responsibly, refrain from engaging in inappropriate behaviors, and be good digital citizens, rules and prohibitions aren't enough. They also need media literacy skills. (Contains 6 online resources.)

ERIC

4

2011

EJ914330