1. What is the teacher’s role concerning student Internet activities at home?She wondered
how to incorporate being a good citizen even in cyberspace?
For a teacher its difficult to control what students do at home, and at the same level its difficult to discipline and tell students how they should act, especially if it is not related to school at all. As example, what happened on the IM was at home and it was dealing with a dance, Nether at school or a homework assignment.
As the teacher overhearing this conversation, I would have pulled the students aside and have a discussion with them. I would let them know that impersonating someone over the internet is very dangerous and could put that person in real danger. Also the fact that Claire talked in a mannor not like Meghan make it unfair to Megan. Next I would proceed to tell them that continuing these actions is inappropriate and immature. I would tell them to not continue anymore, because the photo sent could be an illegal action. Then I would contact their parents and let them know what happened. The next day I would give a brief lecture on the importance of logging off your computer even if friends are around, and how to protect your identity and passwords.
I really dont like when people say "just worry about what happens at school and stay out of everything else" I'm not trying to make friends with students, but what had happened in the case study I think is unacceptable behavior and as instructors we are to address these behaviors. This is bullying "one of my students" so in that case it becomes my problem.
2. How important is keeping your login information secure?
Keeping your information secure is VERY important. Things like Facebook hacks are easy to fix, yes a little sloppy sometimes, but still controllable. the only major concern with social networking sites is an Identity issue. Things such as pay-pal, Itunes, E-bay, etc. These websites ask for creditcard info and addresses, hacks in these programs can put people in Debt, this is why its important to protect the info.
3. Why should students get into the habit of logging off when they are away from your
computer
because of the case study above, its a great example. Also people could steal your identity, give you viruses, create problems socially; There are a plethora of reasons why you should take extra precautions.
