Information and Communication Technology

What is Safer Internet Day?

Safer Internet Day, which was held on 7 February, is a global event that brings together communities, families, schools and organisations from more than 200 countries to help create safer online spaces. This worldwide initiative is celebrating 20 years in 2023, making it a great time to reflect as well as look forward. 

Technology has evolved dramatically in the past two decades and the benefits have been huge. These developments have also exposed us to many risks with real-world impacts, making online safety awareness even more important. That's why the organisers of Safer Internet Day are calling on Australians to connect, reflect, protect. 

Connect safely and with purpose – by keeping apps and devices secure and using social media in positive ways. 

Reflect before we act – by taking a moment to consider how what we do and say online may affect others. 

Protect ourselves and others by taking action – by telling family, friends or colleagues about eSafety and how we can help.   

By doing these simple things, we can work towards making every day a Safer Internet Day. For more information visit the eSafety website.

Information and Communication Technology lessons

At Ben Venue, technology lessons have begun with a strong focus on online safety. Prior to the commencement of these lessons, Stage 1, 2 & 3 students were asked about their use of technology using questions recommended by the eSafety Commissioner.

The questions were divided into sections and focused on:

1. Online safety and me - I know my rights and responsibilities

2. Online safety lessons - At school we learn about online safety

3. Online safety at my school - What my school does to keep me safe online

The results of the survey have highlighted key areas that will be covered within the teaching and learning programs of different stages across the school. For example, in Stage 1 a very low number of students indicated that they knew what to do if someone bullies them or one of their friends online.

Another interesting response indicates that as students move through the stages towards high school, they are less likely to speak openly with their teachers about their online activity.

Students in Stage 1 appear to be keen to talk to their teachers about what they do online; however, Stage 3 students, as shown below, are less likely to engage in conversation about ‘good or bad’ incidents.   

Finally, the results of the survey indicate that students across all stages feel that our school believes that online safety is important. Stage 2 in particular expressed this opinion.

Students have now begun learning about online safety and working to create their own clues and questions support their safety when they are learning and working online.

Hopefully all students across the school will be coming home over the next few weeks, keen to check their privacy and location setting on all devices and can engage parents and carers in thoughtful conversations about their activities online.

Rebecca O’Hara

ICT Teacher