There are hundreds of examples of software blocking harmless and even helpful information accidentally and on purpose. Some software developers simply block sites to which they are ideologically opposed. Sites with information about feminism, the Quakers, birth control, and homosex- uality have all been intentionally blocked by various commercial filters. The ACLU thinks it is important for young people to learn to think critically on the Web as in all of life. Schools should develop policies with instructions on use of the Internet.
Schools can also request that the Internet be accessed only for school-related work.
One way to teach critical thinking skills in schools is to condition Internet access on finishing a seminar that's like a driver's education course. Libraries and schools should publicize and provide links to Web sites recommended for children and teens. Cited References ACLU White Paper. Censorship in a Box.