Your Child’s Education and the Internet

The key to preparation is education, and in a world mediated by technology, education means gaining access to resources and publications through the Web. The question of the Internet can be like a Rorschach test for families — is it the gateway to opportunity, knowledge and success, or is it a fearful place full of predators and unseemly video footage? The truth is that the Internet is both. As a parent it is vital to examine both sides of this learning tool to know just what you are offering to your child.

Knowing how to present your child with the educational opportunities afforded by this online resource is your job as a provider. Most parents don’t know the best research databases and online catalogs, and few feel comfortable using search engines. Even if you are a computer literate parent your best bet as a provider is to visit your local library and speak with an Internet or “search” specialist at their information desk. Librarians are not only trained in locating print sources, but since 1990, have been required by most colleges to study online databases and search techniques.