Digital media usage at a young age - should campaigns be conducted?

Firstly we look at the topic of digital media and how it is used in schools and at home today amongst children and teenagers. As the use of digital technology is increasing by the day new issues are established with the negative side to Internet usage. The two key words that stand out for me are 'inappropriate material'. We don't always think or see the negative impact the convenience of the Internet provides.

 

If we look at children and teenagers in schools today using the Internet at a high degree, the basic fundamentals need to be taught. If a child doesn't know that it is wrong to upload a photo that is deemed to be inappropriate then why would they not do it? This brings us to teaching and developing right and wrong to students at a young age. I don't know how young children are using social media, streaming and other similar websites but this needs to established to begin the education on the use of Internet in school and at home.

 

If I was to conduct a campaign in schools on the use of recording, uploading and sharing of inappropriate material....

• You would first look at all the avenues where students are in class, reading, programs and other school activities to create awareness. Whether it be posters around the school, next to computers in libraries, on student Internet log in pages etc.
• As students are always on the Internet - then advertising on the school website on rules and regulations of using certain websites and repercussions involved.
• Rules and information would need to be set up and presented to students from teachers, guidance councillors, form room teachers and all mentors involved in the students education.
• Student councillors, house captains and student leaders can run presentations at assemblies and in class on the rules of Internet usage.
• It is important to notify and work alongside parents as they have a large impact on their children's lives growing up and for schools to run workshops to teach the students but as well as their parents.
• Place information in school newsletters as many parents read and can pass on the information to their children.

The Internet today is going to have negative impacts as there is more availability, social media and connecting with one another and I think programs do need to put in place at an early age from the education department, individual schools and parents themselves. At the end of the day school aged children need to take it upon themselves to look at the positive and negative impacts of using the Internet and think before uploading, recording and sharing material online. The digital media age can now give you new opportunities and exciting things at the click of a button but it is still down to the way you use it and what you want out of it.

 

Leaving you with the final words: Google before you tweet is the new think before you speak.