Tech Task #4

I chose to use the module Kids for Sale. I felt these materials would be quite useful in a classroom. I believe it exposes kids to the "other" things they should look for when surfing the net. I know I'm guilty of it, and I'm sure everyone else is too, but how many times do we all skip the fine print? Apparently, through this presentation, it's obvious we could get ourselves into quite a bit of trouble that way. I think the power point would be great to use in a classroom, because most students are probably familiar with the listed sites, as well as the fact that the presentation is child friendly. I think this presentation is great for getting kids aware of what they are getting themselves into when it comes to registering for things on the Internet. I feel there should be a larger focus on the viruses that can be obtained from such sites or programs. For example, ICQ. Even downloading the program onto your computer can leave you with virsuses. Or the fact that people can send you files through the internet or MSN and they can be contained with virsuses as well. This power point should have given kids the other side - what happens after your register for something, what happens after you download an executable file, what happens when you open uncensored email, etc. I do like how the presentation discusses the fact that kids are attracted to certain characters, or restaurants, and marketers know this, and use it in order to get that child based audience. Kids see a symbol they are familiar with and feel safe because of it. If we bring this to their attention, and show kids what to do and what to look for when they are on the Internet, this media awareness may prevent future mishaps on the Internet. I find that parents do not realize what their children are being exposed to on the Internet all the time. Possibly sharing this PowerPoint with them would be a good way for them to take a step in educating their children of the dangers of the Internet, and what is and isn't acceptable. I feel that there are great ways to put this PowerPoint to use, and it's something I would seriously consider using in the future.