Technology enriches learning by granting instant access to information for assignments, research, and interactive learning experiences. However, it also exposes children to significant risks, including cyberbullying and exposure to inappropriate content.
While teachers can employ certain tools and strategies to protect children in the classroom, monitoring their social media use outside of school hours is more challenging.
According to the 2021 ‘SA Kids Online Study‘, over 95% of South African children regularly access the Internet, yet their risky online behavior can expose them to various dangers, including violence, exploitation, and misinformation.
Without adult supervision, children may experience or contribute to cyberbullying, encounter unsuitable content, interact with strangers with malicious intentions, or compromise their personal information.
Misinformation poses another threat; ensuring children have access to reliable information helps them develop a balanced worldview and protects them from scams and hoaxes.
The SA Kids Online study revealed alarming statistics:
– 70% of children surveyed use the Internet without parental consent.
– 25% admitted to adding strangers to their friends or contacts list.
– 18% have shared personal photos or videos with strangers.
– 67% of children who encountered sexual images saw them online.
Given the dual nature of technology in education, robust strategies are needed to safeguard children online.
Creating a Safer Internet
Recognizing the severity of these challenges, the British Council supports partner schools with resources aimed at enhancing digital safety and awareness. For instance, the Online Support for Schools (OSS) platform provides courses, modules, and webinars for educators and school leaders to improve their awareness and professional development.
In response to the increased reliance on online learning platforms due to the COVID-19 pandemic, resources like the Digital Life Hacks program were launched to enhance digital literacy among students.
The British Council Partner Schools program has developed a safeguarding toolkit focusing on educating children about online identity, digital footprints, and social media engagement strategies.
The program teaches children the SMART rules:
– S for Safe: Keep personal details private.
– M for Meet: Don’t meet online contacts without a trusted adult.
– A for Accept: Don’t click on uncertain links.
– R for Reliable: Question the reliability of information and verify with a trusted adult.
– T for Tell: Speak up if something makes you uncomfortable.
Practical tools for educators include training courses on online safety, resources for creating safer school environments, and guidance on involving parents in digital wellbeing conversations.
Collaboration among schools, parents, and students is crucial in creating a secure online learning environment. Events like Schools Now! 2024 facilitate a global dialogue among educators on digital integration challenges and solutions.
Safeguarding in education extends beyond cyberbullying to encompass physical, emotional, and psychological threats. British Council Partner Schools have designated safeguarding contacts to address concerns promptly.
Digital safety is an ongoing journey, but with continued collaboration and commitment, we can protect children’s well-being in the digital realm.
By Amy Newsome, Account Relationship Manager: South Africa, Namibia and Mozambique at British Council The post Balancing Tech in Education: Protecting Students Online first appeared on IT News Africa | Business Technology, Telecoms and Startup News.