In our homes and classrooms, the Internet has opened a world of information to educate and enlighten both you and your students. By knowing the dangers and learning how to avoid them, you can take advantage of all the positive aspects of the Internet while avoiding most of its pitfalls. Frequently, teenagers are reluctant to tell their teachers or parents about troubling encounters on the Internet for fear that they will lose their online privileges. Many teachers and parents have a false sense of security. Their children are at school or at home, doing something positive and useful for their future.
Many adults have little knowledge about computers or what their children are doing online.
As a result, they may not view encounters with real people online with a sense of caution or skepticism. Often, the persons with whom they are interacting are not telling the truth about themselves. Channel One have produced an informative and eye-catching poster contained within this month s Educator s Guide outlining Teen Safety on the Internet. Remember, you never know if people you meet online are who they say they are. If you feel it is appropriate to meet with someone, discuss it with your parents or teachers and never go to the meeting by yourself.