Reflections: Digital Safety

The intention of this assignment was to exhibit to us the importance of protecting ourselves on the Internet. We then, should be obliged to pass this information to those we know, like our family members, and most especially, teach it to our students. “If kids don’t protect their personal information, there are many potential risks: damage to the hardware, identity theft, or financial loss. But children may not realize they are putting their information in jeopardy, because the warning signs aren’t always obvious”(Knorr, 2010). As teachers, we should perpetuate Digital and Internet safety, giving our students guidelines and cautions of the Internet and digital technology like cell phones.

I felt all five topics were very important, one not having precedence over the other. Each topic represented an important aspect of being safe in our digital world. Each group became a master of their respective topic, and then shared their research with the other groups. This is a good idea for covering a broad subject such as digital and Internet safety. I would not omit any of these topics. I felt they all came together very well. However, if I had to add something, the only thing I can think of is being safe on the road by not taking calls and texting while driving. Many deaths have occurred from this act, causing it then to be made illegal in many places. Teens have been charged with negligent operation of a motor vehicle while using a phone (Kantor, 2011).

            Wiggio proved to be useful for our group for this assignment. Our group liked it very much and we were able to get the assignment done, and were able to communicate through it very well. We all agreed that Wiggio was our favorite tool for communication. There are a good number of online tools that can be used to get group projects done, but it depends on the goals and objectives of the group. We’ve looked over a few tools that were viable for use for group projects, however the biggest limitation was the fact that most, if not all, required premium Internet connection. Guam’s Internet is not exactly the best for optimum use of these tools. Wiggio pretty much was the unanimous choice and go to for the class since it worked the best for all of us.

            As far as suggestions for this assignment, I feel that there is not much of a need for revision or addition. The parameters seemed pretty straightforward and were conducive to learning about different ways of being digitally safe. I had no problems with the assignment, and working with my classmates is always fun. Probably the hardest thing was finding time to meet outside of class to rehearse and work on the project since we all have busy lives. However, we were able to get things done, especially through Wiggio.

References:

1.    Kantor, I. (2011, May 27). Teen pleads not guilty to texting in fatal crash. Boston herald. Retrieved from http://news.bostonherald.com/news/regional/view/2011_0527teen_pleads_not_guilty_to_texting_in_fatal_crash/srvc=home

2.    Knorr, C. W. (2010, September 08). Help your kids stay safe and secure in a 24/7 digital world. Retrieved from http://www.commonsensemedia.org/advice-for-parents/help-your-kids-stay-safe-and-secure-247-digital-world