Chapter 6: Computer and Network Security

Computer and the network security of computers is a prime example of humans not being able to keep up with modern technology. Technology has grown so rapidly that we are creating laws to protect people after an incident. Without computers hackers would not exist. Another example of technology advancing too quickly was the 2000 presidential election. Florida had a computer based election card. It also goes back to the last chapter about privacy. If individual privacy was not a right then phone phreaking, dumpster diving, and social engineering would not be an issue.

Chapter 5: Privacy

It's very interesting that there are basically two opinions on privacy. One is that we have a natural right to privacy. The second is that we as a people do not have the natural right to privacy like we have natural right to life, liberty, and the right to own land. What makes the issue of privacy even more interesting is that philosophers struggle to define it. I think this stems from the debate of privacy being a natural right or not. One thing is for certain, privacy is not a "black and white" issue. It's complex because there are many benefits for individuals and society when privacy is exercised. On the contrary, there are benefits to society when individual privacy is not exercised. I feel that the bottom line is all individuals have the natural right to privacy, but personal privacy does need impede the benefit of society. One good example of my opinion is the wiretapping done by the FBI during the Hoover years. Did it go too far at times labeling individuals? Yes it did, but I feel it was a greater benefit to society.

Desktop Videoconferencing: Novelty or Legitimate Teaching Tool?

This article focused on videoconferencing and whether it was really a good learning tool or just a passing trend. Videoconferencing is the wave of the future because it allows you or your classroom to communicate with people and issues around the world while both seeing and hearing them. However, underprivileged schools that do not have the funding or technology may not be able to participate on the same level as privileged schools. In my opinion, at this time videoconferencing is not a reality especially in our district. It requires too much from the entire school in order to use it on a regular basis. However, I do think that it if made more accessible it would have the potential to be an extremely valuable teaching tool.

How Teachers View Technology

This article focused on exactly what the title says: how teachers view technology. It reported on the several surveys taken on how teachers, students, and parents feel about having computers in the classroom. Overall, the majority agree there is really no downside to Internet learning. Technology improves student performance, attention span, completion rates, among many other advantages. I feel like as long as teachers, parents, and students are trained to use the Internet properly, technology is always going to be beneficial.

In Classroom, Computers Often Yield More Glitz Than Guts

This article focuses on the use of computers in the classroom. It's main objective is to portray to the reader the importance of using technology in the classroom while being careful not to stray from the main focus. This main focus is using technology to its fullest potential and not simply jazzing up a PowerPoint presentation. Technology can be an amazing tool as long it is used to meet the objective and not just to surf the net. As teachers we must first focus on the teaching objective.

The Blue Nowhere #2

Phate's reflection on his school days can provide all teachers with a much needed lesson that should never be forgotten. Not every child possesses the capabilities of a social icon, and the lack of typical social graces are by no means an indication of a child's worth or intelligence. Phate eventually proved to own an intellect beyond question, and learned to cope by posing as various personalities. This coping mechanism (referred to as social engineering) eventually became a vital component of his personality, and his criminal procedures.
Social engineering is prevalent in our schools today. It is not uncommoon to encounter students, who cannot afford lunch or schools or supplies, dressed in glitzy bling and $70 baggy jeans.
As educators it is vital that we look beyond social engineering survival mechanisms. We must not forget that providing students with the necessary support to develop as individuals is more crucial than testing numbers and standardized test scores.

Is Technology Just for Boys?

This article is about the different perspectives girls and boys have regarding technology. The article suggests that boys are more interested in how technology works and girls are interested in how it can be used. Sherry Turkle feels that elementary educators must include technology and especially increase technology "fluency" in girls. Software that allows students to be active in building and designing may aid in this. I think it is very important for girls to have the same opportunities as boys. It is my job as a teacher to encourage and provide learning opportunities in technology for both boys and girls.

The Blue Nowhere #1

The Blue Nowhere begins with typical "good guy" "bad guy" tensions and conflicts. However, as the story progresses it employs a parallel I found most interesting.
Often, we as educators tend to overlook our student's schema regarding various topics. We assume that our mere existence and life experience override any possible contributions our students may have to offer regarding our classrooms. Much the same, in the story, the police were reluctant to admit that Gillette, a convicted hacker could or should be permitted or capable in assisting their investigation.
Who of us have not had the situation occur when a student was able to help us out of a jam? I am certain this has occurred for many of us whether it be in relating subject material to a lower functioning student, or assisting us with a technical issue in the classroom. Though we may be reluctant at first to accept their expertise, we are often grateful for it once the issue at hand is resolved.
As in our classrooms, the detectives were resistant in accepting the assistance Gillette offered. However, as the story progresses they actually become dependant and perhaps grateful.

Larry Magid: Keeping Kids Safe On-Line

Larry Magid is the editor in chief of the Web sites SafeKids.com and SafeTeens.com. These sites give kids and teens guidance on how to stay safe online and provide resources for parents as well. This article discusses Magid's views of on-line safety for kids. Magid believes that the Internet is a very valuable tool, but kids need to be taught how to use it properly. Magid believes that blocking devices are not effective because kids find ways to get around them anyway. He believes that today, the Internet is a necessity and kids need to be exposed to it, but, at the same time, taught how to be a good on-line citizen. Magid also feels that controlling what kids see on the Internet is up to the parents' discretion. I agree with Larry Magid's views. These days, there is not getting away from the Internet. Students need to know how to safely use it to benefit his/her learning. It is up to the parents to control what they are exposed to until the student is old enough or responsible enough to make his/her own decisions. As teachers we have to make sure our students have a good foundation of knowledge about the Internet to fall back on so they can make good decisions.

Assistive Technology Benefits All Students

This article discusses what assistive technology is and how it benefits students according to Steve Timmer, the founder of Premier Assistive Technology. Assistive technology is any software or hardware designed to make life easier for someone with any physical or learning disabilities. Steven Timmer emphasized the importance of meeting the needs of both struggling students and those without a "label" who just need a little extra push. I believe assistive technology has a very important place in the classroom today! The programs seem to be easy to use and have proven to be successful.

ISTE Rules

This is my third year of teaching and my first year in the district. I didn't even know these NETS standards existed. After reading them, I feel that I am capable of using and abiding by them in my classroom. My students are proficient in the use of technology and (I'm sure) know more than they show me in the classroom. I feel that I can do a lot more in integrating technology as far a planning units that include technology to maximize student learning. I do however, use technology for assessment and evaluation, especially with Accelerated Math. My students and all students really need to understand the social, legal, and human issues in technology. I think this will be a good thing to put into my "beginning of the year" unit.

First Posting

This is for my MAED class called Issues and Ethics of Technology. I hope I did everything correctly! This is my very first time doing anything like this.