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Cyberethics
We live in an exciting time in history. The widespread availability of computers and Internet connections provides unprecedented opportunities to communicate and learn. Unfortunately, although most people use the Internet as a powerful and beneficial tool for communication and education, some individuals exploit the power of the Internet for criminal or terrorist purposes.
We can minimize the harm that such individuals do by learning ourselves, and teaching young people, how to use the Internet safely and responsibly. The term "cyberethics" refers to a code of safe and responsible behavior for the Internet community. Practicing good cyberethics involves understanding the risks of harmful and illegal behavior online and learning how to protect ourselves, and other Internet users, from such behavior. It also involves teaching young people, who may not realize the potential for harm to themselves and others, how to use the Internet safely and responsibly.
The information and links below offer guidance and resources for parents and educators and for young people so that they can develop good cyberethics, and get the most out of the exciting new world of the Internet.
Model Acceptable Use Policy for IT Resources in the Schools
On October 23, 2002, President Bush announced his agenda to increase Federal efforts to promote Online Safety. He also urged parents of America to take time to teach children about staying safe online. More information is available via the links below.
- President Bush Increases Federal Efforts to Promote Online Safety (October 23, 2002)
- Increasing Online Safety for America's Children - White House Fact Sheet
(October 23, 2002)
On September 5, 2000, in conjunction with the new Cybercitizen partnership to teach children about responsible online behavior, Attorney General Janet Reno wrote a letter to parents asking them to instill computer ethics and responsibility in their children. A new web site - www.cybercitizenship.org - represents a major national effort to provide teachers, parents and their children with a new learning tool - responsible computer use. The Web site is initially focused on providing support for parents, and will expand to assist teachers and appeal to kids. Read the press release and the letter via these links:
- Cybercitizen Partnership Launches Web Site With Back-to-School Tools to Teach Kids about Responsible Online Behavior (September 5, 2000)
- Letter From Attorney General Janet Reno To Parents on Cybercitizenship and Cyberethics (September 5, 2000)
Justice Kidspage has many resources for kids, their parents and teachers. It includes a special page on "Cyberethics for Kids" and "A Lesson Plan for Teachers of Elementary and Middle School Children" which is accessible via the links below:
- Cyberethics for Kids
- Computer Crime: A Lesson Plan Outline for Teachers of Elementary and Middle School Children