Filtering contented from the internet

The internet is becoming an essential part of every day life. In order to adequately prepare our children for the challenges of tomorrow, internet access needs to be an integral part of education. As beneficial as the internet is, it also poses many problems and challenges for education institutions. High school districts need a viable solution that will filter web traffic. Filtering needs to be balanced so the internet remains available as a valuable educational resource. There are many different perspectives by which the subject can be viewed.

Parental concern for internet content that students have access to at school is well warranted. Parents are not thoroughly informed of what computer safeguards are in place to prohibit students from viewing inappropriate material. Technology is continually advancing and changing. For every safe guard that is in place, there are individuals behind websites that post ways to defeat internet filters. There are different ways students can be more vulnerable through internet mediums such as bulletin board systems, chat rooms, instant messages, newsgroups and e-mails. Each one of these mediums allow for virtual communication and viewing of potentially harmful content if safeguards are not adequate.) (Federal Bureau of Investigation 2007)

Filters, acceptable use policies, and waivers signed by parent and student help ease parental concerns about student internet access. According to Sanchez (2007), parents feel most comfortable when students are closely supervised while on the internet along with active student education in internet responsibility. School law expert's support filters however; the filters do not supersede a signed acceptable use policy. The school must disclose in the acceptable use policy that precautionary steps are being taken, but the school cannot guarantee that a student will not come across inappropriate material on the Internet. If there is a chance that students can view inappropriate internet contents while at school, parents will be concerned.

Before internet, teachers were expected to assist students in their learning process and teach the required curriculum. They were also required to grade papers and assignments; which is time consuming. The internet serves as a useful tool for teachers and be used as an advantage. Teachers can use the internet for posting assignments and grades. The internet also assists teachers with educational updates and offers aid for students that plagiarize. Teachers are able to find where or what resources are being utilized by the students. Conversely, not all teachers are computer literate or internet smart. Time and school funds are needed to initiate the internet integration. Some schools cannot afford to take this step and take a hit in their budget. In addition, teachers do not always have enough time to learn how to use the internet or instruct students how to use the internet.

Students use the internet to enhance their learning experience. It prepares them for the college life style. Internet usage in school can also be negative. Students often apply the internet to personal aspects or interest. Cheating is a big issue raised when students take advantage of internet ...