Internet Safety

The article I chose to read for my fourth article was entitled, “Tangled in the Web” from the August 2001 Ensign. I learned a lot of things from the readings, but I think the most important thing I learned is that media is neutral—it’s how we choose to use the media that determines if it is good or bad. I learned that media, in the form of television, the computer, the Internet (social sites, e-mail, and chat rooms), is replacing face-to face contact with others. We, as educators, parents, and concerned adults, need to make sure that virtual reality doesn’t become any child’s reality. Parents need to use Internet filters and TV programming locks to prevent children from coming across things they should not see. It is important to have computers and TVs in high-traffic areas of our homes. Parents should also discuss and watch appropriate media with their children. In addition, parents need to serve as an example of a responsible media viewer—choosing appropriate, uplifting media, and using media and technology (including cell phones) for appropriate time lengths. All family members should be informed about the dangers of Internet pornography. I found it interesting and surprising that if an inappropriate site is accidentally accessed, in order to escape from the site it involves shutting down the entire system. I believe that the main message I got from reading all of the articles is that the Internet and media can be great tools and resources, but you have to use them wisely and safeguard yourself and your family from potential danger. Based on what I’ve read, I want to be the type of parent and educator that sets a good example of media viewing. I also will have computers in high-traffic areas of my home and classroom. I will use Internet filters and TV locks in my home and in my classroom to prevent accidental viewing of inappropriate materials. I want to be an educator and parent that helps children understand media dangers and what types of media should be viewed. I will use what I have learned from the readings and discuss with my family and friends the dangers of misusing media. I want to share the information I’ve learned about ways to safeguard children and I will talk to my family and friends about their opinions and views on the Internet and media.