Children are accessing the Internet and using Internet services such as
chat rooms from an increasingly early age. For children, the Internet is
an important research, communication and information tool. They send emails,
have multiple chats in IM ( Instant messages)create websites, post blogs
about their personal lives, send text messages and images on their mobile
phones, chat in chatrooms and meet new friends in social networking sites.
Social lifelines are how they perceive these communication technologies.
However, children, their teachers and parents need to be aware that there
are potential risks and dangers inherent in Internet use as well as the
strategies that can be utilised to ensure that their online experiences
are positive and safe.
Cyberbullying in the online world of the ‘Always On’ generation
is on the increase due to the ubiquitous nature of Internet connectivity
taking place not only in homes and at school, but by the mobile multimedia
computers… mobile phones.
‘Cyberbullying involves the use of information and communications
technologies to support deliberate, repeated and hostile behaviour by
an individual or group that is intended to harm others.’ Bill Belsey,
www.bullying.org
As well as bullying and harassment other potential dangers for children
include: exposure to inappropriate material, physical danger, spam or
electronic junk mail, unreliable information, financial risks and personal
information and privacy issues they may even be developing an addiction
to computer use.
Increasingly the education of parents, teachers and students into the
impact of computer use and cyberbullying is being sought.
|
