Below is some information I got from the following website/blog:
http://www.blogtap.net/kidblog-a-free-blogging-platform-for-the-elementary-and-middle-school-classroom/
What about the Kidblog environment makes it safe for children?
Teachers have full administrative control over all comments, posts, and privacy settings. At Kidblog, the core element is the “class.” As the administrator of the class, teachers have the ability to preview and approve (or unapprove) content published by students (and other visitors, if allowed by their privacy settings).
Kidblog does not collect any personal information from students, making us a perfect choice for students under 13 (in accordance with COPPA guidelines). Furthermore, students are never subjected to advertising of any kind, so teachers can feel comfortable knowing that the publishing environment is free from unpredictable distractions.
Hi Meghan and Hanns,
ReplyDeleteThank you for posting the first comment! (I found out today that you need particular accounts in order to be able to commment).
I really appreciate your positive feedback. Being allowed to let my kids blog has been the most exciting part of my career thus far. Now they will have authentic purposes to publish their writing. They will become more passionate writers and as a result, they will write more and their writing will improve drastically. I also understand that this is very new for most kids and adults and I need to do my best to make everyone feel safe and comfortable. It's a process!
Thanks again,
Rachel
Hi Ms. Small,
ReplyDeleteI am still trying to navigate my way around the site, but Haeden is a pro and loves writing and check the blogs. He also told me that all the blogs need to be approved by you first and that no personal information or last names are allowed. Thanks for reinforcing internet safety in a practical setting. Have fun!!
Like any parent I too have concerns about Internet safety and inappropriate use. As a middle school teacher I have seen many, many examples of the harmful effects of inappropriate use of such technology. However, most of that occurred when this technology was new and guidelines were not in place. No one was teaching the kids how to be safe and appropriate on the Internet. Now that you and other teachers are actually educating our children about such things and starting at an early age, I see fewer and fewer abuses of this technology. Ryan comes home and tells me about what he's learned about keeping privacy and making appropriate comments on the blogs. They're having such a positive experience that I know they will continue to use this appropriately and enjoy all the benefits this technology has to offer. Thank you for forging ahead and teaching our children these important skills.
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