Peter Lacerenza
Features Editor
In an era where “google” is now a verb in the dictionary, and the Internet is increasingly accessible, it can be said that the Internet is vital to our lives. With that being said, technologically progressive websites, known as Web 2.0, now serve as an alternate and new mode of education. However, as these websites and technologies largely involve video sharing or social networking, they are often seen as a potential distraction while being an alternate educational tool. From this, a question arises at our schools: to block or not to block?
Although a large percentage of high schools have chosen to block, New Canaan High School has chosen not to. “We’re radically looser than other schools. We’re the only school in the state that allows teachers to use Facebook as a course platform,” Library Media Specialist Michelle Luthala said. “Most schools block Facebook, and many block Youtube as well as Twitter. We on the other hand use them for education. When we visit other districts, people freak out at what we do. In fact, this district was 3/5ths of the speakers at a state panel meeting on downgrading state instituted filtration. Essentially, we’re using emerging technology to embed 21st Century learning skills into instruction and it is a good thing. Other districts really have a long way to go with this.”
What are the reasons behind the lack of filtration, in which we utilize social networking rather than restrict its use? “I don’t believe in filtering because it’s like throwing a two year old into a pool with a floaty and walking away,” Ms. Luthala said. It gives a false sense of security because kids will always see bad stuff on the Internet, and filtering will block really good stuff, despite how good a filter. Instead of filtering, I believe in educating students in responsible Internet use. It is an important objective of the ICT faculty to teach students responsible computing. Filtering is a form of censorship and I believe in education over censorship. Open access allows us to do things right, whereas excessive filtering prevents us from doing so.”
Although these social networking and video sharing websites have been blocked, there are still websites that fall under the blocked category. “We try really hard not to block and restrict websites,” Ms. Luthala said. If it makes sense to not block a site, we don’t. If and when a student needs to use a website that has been blocked, it’s important that they use NCPS form to request the removal of a block.”
Facebook, Twitter and Youtube have been integrated into our learning, some students oppose the high school’s use of such websites. “I personally don’t think our social lives and academics should be put on the same level,” sophomore Tucker Iida said. “ Facebook should be put aside because it’s really where students are able to get away from school.
However, other students disagree. “I think it’s good because everyone uses and likes using Facebook and Youtube. These websites, especially Youtube, expose kids to real things versus those watered down for educational purposes,” junior Christina Marder said.
“I think that itís a very great opportunity for students and teachers, freshman Alexandra Cohen said. “My history teacher uses Facebook, Twitter and a lot of other internet tools and they help her a lot, and allow her to answer questions and get groups together when students don’t understand material. I think as long as kids use inappropriately, it’s wonderful.”
However, do students use the given Internet privileges appropriately? “I personally don’t think so,” junior Erin Wallace said. “When you walk into the library and you have to do something important that’s due the next period it seems like all of the computers are taken up by people Facebook chatting to the person two computers down.”
On the other hand, Alexandra believes that exposure to Facebook and Youtube, often seen as distractions, will help in the long run. “I think it’s preparing us for college because you’re not babied there, so essentially exposure to Facebook in educating is teaching us to use it responsibly and thus preparing us for later.”
Many students feel as though allowing access to websites like Youtube and Twitter are not only a testament to the level of trust the school has for its students, but also its progressiveness. “I think what the Internet policy says is that we can be trusted to behave like adults, and should be treated as such. As technology improves, we have to put it into our lives more and fully understand it so it can improve and make easier technology in the future,” Alexandra said.
“Overall it says that teachers are trusting of us, and that they think about or needs internet wise,” Tucker said. “ Also, the fact that our school uses these sites shows that education is becoming more technology friendly, and that teachers want to fit in more with current student trends.”
Nice job Peter, just a couple of things. When I said “We try really hard not to block and restrict websites,” what I meant was that we try really hard not to block USEFUL websites!
And to Erin, and anyone else who shares Erin’s concern, computers in school are supposed to be used for school-related work only. This is delineated in the Acceptable Use Policy, which appears on your screen each time you log on. If you ever find yourself the position Erin describes, please let a library staff member know, and we will secure a computer for you. You can also appeal to students yourself. Generally, they move along pretty fast.
Again, thanks for this article, Peter!