Googleagalities

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Click on the "Wordle" to view some legal and ethical points that we need to consider while using Google in the classroom.

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The best way to avoid getting in trouble while using google, is to educate yourself in what you should and shouldn't do whether you are using it in the classroom or at home. Within the School context all Queensland State Schools are required to have all students sign an Acceptable Use Agreement prior to them having access to an email and internet services. Information for parents and students regarding the use and policies regarding the use of ICT in Queensland State Schools can be found by clicking on the following link [] Schools use filtering software that enables the teachers to block specific domains and filter by using key words. Teachers are also encouraged to educate the students on how to know what a website is about by being able to read the URL's, for e.g a url that contains edu means education.

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Teachers can custom their own website by using Google Custom Search [], this will allow the teachers to refine the searches that the children have access to. Students need to be aware of their digital footprint as this can haunt them for the rest of their lives. What may seem to be a general comment and meant no harm, could lead to cyber-bullying or could be archived and at a later date may be accessed and become the reason why you didn't get that job. Plagiarism & copyright are ethical issues that can lead to a student getting a fail grade, searches can provide teachers with information on if plagiarism has taken place. Copyright Aware [] provides information to Teachers as well as students on copyright issues. Turnittin.com [] provides information on cyber-cheating and the legal ramifications. Using Google is fun and provides a wide variety of tools that can be used for enhancing learning within the classroom, being educated on being cyber-smart will provide a more fun and safe learning journey.