Blog #6:Internet Use in Elementary Classroom

Overall, I feel that the internet is a great source for many things. All children should have experience working with computers. Technology these days is very intense and it is only going to get worse. The earlier children learn technology the easier it is going to be for them in the future. I would use the internet to show the children how to search for topics they are interested in. I would inform them not to go to websites that they think may be harmful or they do not recognize. I would also give them a list of websites that are available to them that have fun activities that they can use at home or in school. I feel that the internet has endless amounts of information on numerous topics. On the other hand, books have great information as well but there is a limited amount of information and sometimes the information may be hard to find. On the other hand, there are some disadvantages to the use of the internet such as inappropriate websites. All websites that children view should have a privacy set on them and should be monitored at all times. This way the internet is safe when the children are surfing the web. Another thing that teacher have to be aware of is plagiarism. If students learn to use websites more frequently they have to remember to put their writing in their own words. When children are young they should be taught about plagiarism and the consequences. I feel this will prevent children from plagiarizing in the future. In addition, I feel many websites are beneficial to all children and can really change how a child learns.

I have discovered many different types of websites that contain educational information for children as well as activities that relate to subjects taught in school. My favorite education website so far would have to be INFOhio (http://www.infohio.org/). After viewing this site I found many activities that can be incorporated in various subjects and can help children expand in their learning. I think this website helps engage children in their work. This website also offers many types of activities for children such as puzzles, homework help, history, science, math, and much more! I think this website has a lot to offer for both teachers and children.