Using Web 2.0 tools to teach online safety education in the intermediate grades

Abstract

As more and more educators are using the Internet to enhance the potential learning of students, there are growing concerns over student safety on the Internet. This research project explores some of the risks associate with students going online and identifies effective ways to engage students in learning about online safety. The intention of this project was to create an interactive online unit of study to help young students learn how to stay safe while interacting and learning online. This integrated resource package was designed as an introductory online safety unit of study for grade four and grade five students. To ensure educators, parents and students have convenient access to this resource, a website was created that include educational materials, parental resources and student lessons. In order to ensure student safety, only Web 2.0 tools were selected for this website that did not require students to create personal accounts or give out personal information. Feedback provided by other educational professionals suggested a need for a unit of study that teaches students about online risks and online safety. The Online Safety 101 website (http://cedarelementary.weebly.com/) will need to be maintained and updated so that students can continue to develop cyber-safe habits.