Better Internet for Kids

The Tech in Our World presentation provides an opportunity to reflect on tech in our world, the challenges and opportunities. Recognise the influence of persuasive design features and algorithms on our online experiences, and learn tips to help reset our online experiences to promote a positive impact on our time online.

The Tech in Our World presentation provides an opportunity to reflect on tech in our world, the challenges and opportunities. Recognise the influence of persuasive design features and algorithms on our online experiences, and learn tips to help reset our online experiences to promote a positive impact on our time online.

Every time we go online, we’re giving away information about ourselves.

But just how much data are companies collecting from us and what rights do we have in relation to our personal data?

An important protection for all of us is GDPR which came into effect in 2018 and is designed to protect personal data linked to individuals.

In this episode Webwise Youth Panelist Alannah is joined by Jennifer Dolan, Assistant Commissioner (Head of Children’s Data Protection Policy) in the Data Protection Commission.

There have been big steps forward in AI over the past decade.

From online shopping to streaming platform, or using the apps on our phones – AI is already changing how we live, learn, and work.

One of the AI developments that has attracted a lot of attention since it came on the scene late last year is ChatGPT.

With people excited about the possibilities that it may provide, but also sparking a lot of ethical concerns too.

The rapid expansion of the Internet within society has led to marked changes in the way individuals communicate, think and live their lives. Traditionally we got our news from trusted sources, journalists and media outlets that are required to follow strict codes of practice. However, the internet has enabled a whole new way to publish, share and consume information and news with very little regulation or editorial standards. This has led to rapid spreading of mis/disinformation, amplification of extremist/radical views and conspiracy theories.

My Online World was developed in collaboration with the the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA), to support teachers in planning learning and teaching for students aged 12- 14 years.

The five lessons support students to become more self-aware and aware of others, include opportunities for classroom dialogue, and prompt students to reflect. Lessons are supported by complementary PowerPoint slides available.

Lessons
Lesson 1: My Online Experience

This lesson aims to raise awareness of the amount of time we spend on our digital devices and consider alternative ways to spend our time. Develop an understanding of how a technique called persuasive design entices us to use our devices.

To raise awareness of the impact of facial recognition technology and its benefits and risks. Students will have a greater understanding of the concept of facial recognition and how it is used in a variety of contexts and the risks and benefits associated with its use. Students will explore the key terms (i.e. detection, analysis and recognition, faceprint, selfie) and consider how organisations use facial recognition and how our faceprint is used.

The #TalkListenLearn campaign encourages parents to have open and regular conversations with their child about the internet. To talk to them about benefits and the risks, but also to listen to what their child has to say and to learn about their life online. To help families begin and continue conversations we have developed a topic generator tool. Simply click on the start the conversation button which will serve up a series of questions for families to discuss about how we use the internet.

These Safer Internet Day PowerPoint Presentations aim to provide context to the aim and purpose of Safer Internet Day; an EU wide initiative to promote a safer internet for all users, especially young people. These are designed for use with 1st and 2nd class, 3rd and 4th class, and 5th and 6th class. The presentations can be delivered by school leaders or teachers at a whole school assembly. They include some warmer activities that can be used with young people to introduce them to the topic of online safety.