Internet Safety for Online Learning
How can you stay safe on the Internet? Follow these guidelines to protect yourself online
Do not give out personal information
This includes your name, school, telephone number, address, photos, credit card numbers, or information about yourself, friends, or family. You do not have to fill out forms or answer questions on the Internet. Online contests may be used to trick you into revealing personal information, so be cautious. Be careful about what you say in chat rooms, since you do not know who is online.
Never arrange to meet in person with people you have met online
Don't arrange telephone calls, either. If you're a teenager, let your parents know if someone you've met online wants to arrange a meeting. Some people on the Internet pretend to be something quite different from what they are. Do not accept gifts from strangers online.
For more information about online predators, investigate these websites:
ProtectKids.com - describes how to be careful while using the Internet, including developing relationships online, criminal behavior, and child exploitation.
NetSmartz.org - offers a variety of tools and games to keep kids and teens safer on the Internet. This is for kids, parents, and educators.
Beware of online bullying
Bullying happens at online school, too. If you are being bullied online by other students, or if you're receiving abusive messages, tell someone in authority.
Do not post anything that could hurt others or have a negative effect
Information that you post on the Internet may be seen by friends, strangers, teachers, and, later, even colleges and possible employers. Remember that once you've posted something on a blog, it's very hard to remove it from public view. Posting to newsgroups may make your email address public.
The online school you choose may have a safe place like a protected school discussion board. This is where you can post school-appropriate information.
Protect passwords. Do not to give them to friends (not even your best friend)
Being savvy on the Internet is part of being an online learner. Allowing other people to have access to your passwords may put the integrity of your school work in danger.
Develop good Internet practices when using the Internet
Be careful about opening ads or email from unfamiliar addresses. These can carry viruses, cause damage, or bring large quantities of additional unwanted email and ads. Also be careful about downloading files or installing software.
Be honest and ethical about work that is submitted for class
You should not plagiarize or claim someone else's work as your own. It is against the law to publish— even on the Internet— writing, music, art, or other works that were created and copyrighted by someone else. You may be surprised to learn that teachers are often experts at detecting borrowed phrases and they may have special software to detect plagiarism. Follow the policy of your online learning provider for citing works.
Balance computer time with other activities
Balance in life is important. You should take regular breaks from schoolwork and from using the computer. When investigating any online learning program, ask how much time is required or suggested to be completed each week on the computer. Many programs offer activities both on and off the computer. Even if you enjoy the computer, it is important to balance computer time with other activities.
Evaluate information on the Internet
Do not believe everything you find or receive on the Internet. Your safety and the quality of your schoolwork depend on learning to tell the difference between reliable and unreliable information. Take the time to investigate this issue with your online learning provider.
Source: North American Council for Online Learning, and Minnesota Department of Education
