In just four weeks, the upcoming 2023/24 school season will start, with several schools set to open within the next two weeks.
Given the ubiquitous nature of technology in today’s onlife world, education has undergone a significant transformation with the integration of technology into the classroom. Many schools now provide students with devices like Chromebooks, MacBooks, or iPads to enhance their learning experience. While these tools can be incredibly beneficial, it’s essential for parents to recognize that the protection and monitoring provided within the school environment might not extend seamlessly to the home setting when these devices are brought home. This article discusses the reasons why parents need to be aware of online safety challenges when their children use these devices outside of school be it on a school bus, at a coffee shop, or at home.
It’s well understood that most schools usually implement strong cybersecurity measures to ensure a safer online environment for students while using school-provided devices on a school network. These measures typically include robust malware protection, content filtering, and firewall settings. However, when students take these devices home, they enter a different digital landscape. The use of a school device on a home network might not have the same level of security, leaving devices susceptible to malware, cyber threats, and access to inappropriate content.
Within a school’s digital network, web content is often filtered and restricted to prevent students from accessing inappropriate or harmful online content or specific websites. Unfortunately, when these devices are used at home, the same level of content filtering might not be in place. This could expose children to potentially harmful or inappropriate content that parents would prefer to keep out of their child’s digital experience – such as access to online pornography or inappropriate language.
When these school-issued devices are used in the classroom, educators and administrators have the means to monitor and supervise students’ online activities to some extent through the school network. However, when these devices are taken home, parents may lose this oversight. This lack of supervision could potentially lead to issues like cyberbullying, the inappropriate sharing of personal information, or engaging in risky online behaviors without parental knowledge.
For parents, the key to ensuring their child’s safety while using school-provided devices at home lies in open communication. Encouraging your child to share their online experiences, activities, and any concerns they might have is crucial. Establishing a non-judgmental environment where children feel comfortable discussing their online world can help parents stay informed and address potential issues promptly (1).
So, What Are Parents To Do?
Check with the school: Does your child’s issued device have the appropriate anti-virus and security protection and parental filtering and oversight capabilities when brought home?
Educate Your Child – Equip your child with the knowledge to recognize online threats, phishing attempts, and inappropriate content. Teach them about responsible online behavior and the importance of privacy.
Supplemental Software Security Measures – Consider installing reputable antivirus and security software on the device if you can. These tools can provide an extra layer of protection against malware and other cyber threats. However, it should be noted that many school devices will lock out the ability for a parent or caregivers to install such software.
Implement Parental Controls – Depending on the device, you might be able to set up parental controls to manage and monitor your child’s online activities. These controls can restrict access to certain websites and apps, as well as track usage. Again, it should be noted that many school devices will lock out the ability for a parent or caregivers to set up parental controls.
Implement Hardware Protection: Utilize a home router that is both a filter and monitor specifically designed for parents to increase privacy, security, safety and monitoring when your child is connected to the home network. Our recommendation is the Gryphon Router (2).
Establish Device Usage Rules – Set clear guidelines for when and how the device can be used at home. Encourage a balance between screen use, outdoor activities, and family interactions. This is where our “White Hatter Family Agreement” can greatly help (3).
Regularly Review Activity – Take time to review your child’s online activity on the device. This isn’t about invading their privacy, but rather ensuring their safety and guiding them toward responsible online behavior.
While school-provided devices like Chromebooks, MacBooks, or iPads can greatly enhance the educational journey, parents must recognize that their children’s safety and security are not guaranteed once the devices leave the school’s network. Vigilance is crucial to ensure protection against malware, age-inappropriate content, and risky online behaviors when these devices are brought home. By fostering open communication, educating your child on good digital literacy, and implementing home security measures, you can create a safe and enriching digital environment for your child both inside and outside of school.
PS: For schools that are looking for multi-award-winning digital literacy and internet safety education, check out our website at www.thewhitehatter.ca we would love to present to your entire school community
Digital Food For Thought
The White Hatter
References:
1/ https://thewhitehatter.ca/blog/a-transformational-approach-to-parenting-in-todays-onlife-world/
