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.