The Ethics of Web 2.0 in Schools
We just read an article about the ethical considerations of Web 2.0 in schools and their libraries. The article discusses the pros and cons of blocking certain social networking sites to protect students from harm (e.g. online predators). On the one hand, the author argues that teens are vulnerable, especially if they come from dysfunctional homes; these kids are more likely than others to engage in risky behaviors online. On the other hand, the author points out that some Web 2.0 applications possess valuable educational qualities.
The article points out that social networking and other Web 2.0 sites are part of today’s reality, and that one way to grapple with the issues associated with the dangers of Web 2.0 is through education. She suggests too that librarians play an important role in this type of education “as the lines between informatio nand communicatio nblur,” and “the scope of these lessons easily extends to other online behaviors, from website evaluatio nto cyberbullying.”
I agree that education about Web 2.0 and its dangers/ethical considerations is important. But I also think that there is something comforting about restricting access to various websites in the school system. I think that they two, coupled, help to ensure that students are not wasting time during the school day engaging in recreational computer use. I also think that with the recent onslaught of news stories about “cyber-bullying,” linked also to teen suicide, the school system should serve as a safe envrionment for students. There is no guarantee, of course, that this will ensure safety for students, or a safe space for them to learn, but I think that it does lean toward this goal.
