The Internet is getting worse!!
In today's digital age, the Internet has become an indispensable tool for learning, communication, and entertainment, especially for students. There are pros to internet usage, but the cons are continually on the rise. Will there ever be a time when the pros will outweigh the cons? Probably not. This leaves us with the question, is the internet getting worse? Yes is the answer.
Increased Cyber Threats
The prevalence of cyber threats such as cyberbullying, online predators, phishing scams, and identity theft is only growing. Without proper guidance, students may inadvertently expose themselves to these dangers, putting their personal information, mental well-being, and physical safety at risk. Cyberbullying, in particular, has emerged as a significant concern, having detrimental effects on students' mental health and academic performance.
Miss-information
Not all content is suitable or accurate. Students must develop critical thinking skills to learn to identify credible sources from misinformation and fake news. With the proliferation of social media platforms and user-generated content, misinformation spreads rapidly, influencing students' perceptions and beliefs. Teaching students how to evaluate sources, fact-check information, and think critically about online content is essential for fostering digital literacy and responsible citizenship.
Digital Distractions
The internet is a distraction to students, diverting their attention from educational tasks and impacting their academic performance. Social media, online games, and streaming platforms compete for students' time and attention, often leading to procrastination and decreased productivity. By promoting strategies for managing screen time and maintaining focus, educators can help students strike a balance between online activities and academic responsibilities.
Digital Footprints
Students today leave a digital footprint from an early age, often without fully understanding the implications. Every post, comment, or photo shared online contributes to their digital identity, which can have long-term consequences. Employers, college admissions officers, and potential friends or romantic partners may scrutinise students' online presence. Therefore, students must understand the importance of managing their digital footprint responsibly to safeguard their reputation and privacy.
As technology advances, the digital landscape becomes more intricate. New platforms, apps, and online services emerge regularly, providing students more opportunities for learning and interaction. However, with this expansion comes an increased surface area for potential threats. More platforms mean more places where students can encounter inappropriate content and cyberbullying.
Internet safety seminars
Zeeko Education provides virtual and on-site Internet safety training to suit every school’s needs. Some of our packages also include parent seminars to ensure you are up to date with the most relevant information for your child, their class, and their age group. Our bookings are open. If you are a teacher looking to book a seminar, simply fill out the form here. If you are a parent and would like your child to participate in an Internet Safety Seminar, forward this to your child’s teacher.