Since the internet is essential in the classroom setting, teachers are now being tasked with instructing students on internet safety. It’s critical that students know how to protect themselves, especially since you can’t be there all the time to keep them safe.
There are many ways to go about teaching internet safety. It’s been shown that constant instruction such as offering daily cyber security tips is beneficial. However, there are many ways to teach internet safety. These are a few of the more innovative ways to go about this task.
Using Analogies and Projects
Depending on the level and age of the students, analogies can be very helpful. One example is a teacher that uses the example of Little Red Riding Hood to explain to students that it’s easy to take on a fake identity online. Although analogies can change depending on learning needs, using examples of safe and unsafe behaviors are an excellent way to get started.
Teachers can also develop and use projects to drive these points home. The projects could vary but consider having the students research unsafe behaviors. They could also develop a list of do’s and don’ts that could be put in the classroom. Getting students involved in their own safety is an excellent way to improve comprehension.
Have Students Act as Detectives
A good way to teach about internet safety is to have the students try to find out safe and unsafe websites. For example, students could be assigned three websites to review. They’ll have to look at the site author, contents, purpose, and compare the information to sources that can be verified. The catch here is that at least one of the websites is a hoax. The students have to figure out which website is a hoax. This is a great project since it can be used to hone and develop critical thinking skills.
Use Guest Speakers
Not all teachers are experts in the online world and that’s to be understood. However, a knowledgeable speaker can reach students and provide expert information that you may not know. Consider contacting an expert in IT and have them provide a lecture on internet activity and behaviors. Keep in mind that internet safety is an important part of any computer curriculum. Make this a priority, and it will work well with students learning goals.
Teach What to Do When Things Go Wrong
Although teaching safe and unsafe behaviors online is a great way to engage students, they may still have problems with technology. It’s not only important to teach about behaviors but also what they can and should do when they run into trouble online. They should always reach out to a parent, guardian, or instructor in these situations. Examples of problems include contracting a computer virus, sharing personal information, or being the victim of cyberbullying. Emphasize that you are there to help students with safety and make sure they understand that it’s a safe environment for them to share problems.
Review Constantly
Teaching cybersecurity doesn’t take place one day of the year. Make sure to post reminders and bring up these topics on a frequent basis to prevent problems. Also, when problems arise, use this as a learning experience and teach all students, even if they didn’t have that particular problem.
Cybersecurity is a challenging area to each because it’s always changing. However, this means that educators have a greater responsibility to understand and teach this area. From teaching safe and unsafe behaviors to frequent reminders, this task should take place on all educational levels. Make sure to consider how to bring these methods into the classroom.
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