eSmart

eSmart

Computers are an amazing tool that enable us to get jobs done quickly and allow us to access masses of amazing information in a very short amount of time. No longer do we have to write letters out in a rough copy to then rewrite the good, nor do we have to visit the local library to find information in the encyclopedia. While computers can be a fantastic tool to connect with people, there are people who are looking for ways to target children – to either contact them or to expose them to inappropriate information. With the students being on devices all day for their school work they are becoming savvier users and they know how to jump around different sites quickly (and covertly at times) and therefore they are more at risk of being targeted or seeing/doing things they shouldn’t. 

It is a good time to be reminded to 

• be vigilant in observing and checking what your child/children are viewing
• know about the programs and apps they are interested in and are using
• have conversations with them about what they should do if they see or hear something that does not seem right.

Earlier this week you may have heard reports of a disturbing video circulating on social media channels frequently used by children – TikTok, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. At the advice of the eSafety Comissioner’s Office, if you are aware of the video in question, we ask for our school community to exercise discretion in communication about this incident, particularly in front of students and children. In particular, please avoid raising the issue with children who may not have heard of, or been exposed to the video. Drawing students’ attention to the issue may cause worry or distress, and increase the video’s exposure. 

Given this week is the Alannah & Madeline Foundation’s ‘National eSmart Week’, it is a timely reminder to have conversations with our children about making positive digital decisions. Let’s encourage our kids to appreciate all the benefits and possibilities the online connected world can offer, yet be mindful of potential pitfalls that can also be present. Being smart, resilient digital users and consumers makes the connected world a more safe and secure space for everyone. 

The eSafety Commissioner has a website full of great advice for Parents, Kids, Young People, Educators and Seniors. The site contains access to resources and courses that are available for parents - https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents . I challenge you to take a look this week.

If you have any questions or suggestions about eSmart please feel free to contact me at brooke.eastwood@education.vic.gov.au

Brooke eastwood

eSmart Coordinator