What a wonderful opportunity to not only meet other educators and learn from each other, but Shawnette Pankey has orchestrated a “Blog Swap” between members of this Edublog consortium. Below you will find Gina Felter’s fabulous Blog post:
What’s your tech style: Savvy or Junkie?
Are you tech savvy or a tech junkie? A tech junkie is uninformed and careless with their online persona and connections. Tech junkies have no regard for their online safety and the safety of others. On the other hand, one who is tech savvy utilizes technology with respect to themselves by protecting their information and taking precautionary measures to being safe while making connections. The road to being tech savvy starts here, whether you are new to technology or a tech junkie, we will get you there.
Technology has provided the world with an opportunity to connect with people at the speed of instant in a variety of ways on a variety of different levels. From social networking sites, to live video streaming to texting and video chatting, our world is more connected than it has ever been. There is tremendous responsibility that comes with this connectedness. Personal security of information is at the forefront and demands our attention. It is imperative that all tech users become familiar with safety features available on their tech devices of choice. Parents and teachers are partners in educating students both about how to manage privacy settings and internet safety.
Safety While Networking: Simple measures of protection are available on popular social networking sites allowing users to manage how much information is available for others to view. These settings can be found under the account information tab. Savvy Tip: Talk to family and friends about not posting specific details of meeting locations and times on publicly shared message boards. Facebook notes are not private. Opt for email or a phone conversation to set up the details of gatherings.
Safety While Texting: Cell phone companies do have a number of security features for families including usage allowance, time restrictions, and the ability to block certain numbers. This is a great tool for parents with concerns about excessive texting. Concerning cell phones with an internet connection, parents need to be aware that there are no securities limiting access to websites. Also, mobile versions of popular networking sites have the option to include location data with postings by utilizing the GPS feature of your mobile device. Savvy Tip: Demonstrate proper etiquette when texting by being respectful of friends and family members rules concerning texting. Always ask if it is okay to text someone before doing so.
Safety of surfing: There are a number of web protection programs available to keep the whole family safe while they surf. One such program that is free to download is PureSight™. PureSight™ has various features allowing parents to monitor what sites their child is visiting, how much time they are spending on the computer and track instant messaging conversations just to name a few. Savvy Tip: Remember when engaging in online conversations to uphold a respectable persona. Online conversations are not private conversations.
It is imperative that all tech users become familiar with safety features available on their tech devices of choice. Parents and teachers are partners in educating students both about how to manage privacy settings and internet safety. I challenge every lover and user of technology to look into their own connections and see where they may need to employ or modify privacy settings and safety features. Be informed. Be responsible. Be tech savvy!
Wow, wonderful thoughts, Gina. Thanks so much
