Digital Discoverers: Young Explorers Navigating the Internet – A project to empower children on Internet safety

Understanding the Internet
What it is and how it works

Our learning goals are like the tools in our digital explorer’s kit:

• Unravel the mystery of what the Internet is.
• Decode the secret language of how the Internet works.
• Get to know the important parts that make up the big world of the Internet

Armed with this knowledge, we believe our young explorers will not only be able to chart their own course through the Internet effectively, but also develop a keen sense of online safety. They will learn to navigate the twists and turns of this digital labyrinth with confidence and responsibility.

Lesson 1

What is the Internet?

Understand the basics of how the Internet works: The focus will be on teaching children the fundamental concept of how the Internet works. We’ll simplify it by explaining how information travels from one device to another, much like sending a letter in the mail. We’ll touch on aspects such as websites, links, and data,

aiming to help children grasp that the Internet is a system for sharing and accessing information.

Lesson 2

Navigating the Internet

In this lesson, students will learn about web browsers, search engines, and website addresses. They will understand how web browsers function as spaceships, taking them to different websites, while search engines act as magical compasses, guiding them to specific information. Through engaging activities, students will have hands-on experiences exploring websites, conducting searches, and identifying website addresses (URLs).

Lesson 3

Understanding Websites

In this module, children will learn about web browsers as tools for accessing websites and explore popular browsers like Chrome and Firefox. They will also be introduced to search engines such as Google and Bing, discovering how to use keywords to find specific information on the internet. Emphasis will be placed on safe and responsible internet use, fostering digital citizenship skills and promoting respectful online behavior.

Lesson 4

Understanding Internet Safety and Privacy

In this module, students will learn about online privacy and the importance of keeping personal information safe while using the internet. They will understand the concept of personal information and the potential risks of sharing it online. Students will explore safe and unsafe online behaviors, comparing them to playground behaviors, and develop an understanding of actions to take when encountering uncomfortable situations online. Emphasizing the role of trusted adults, students will be encouraged to seek guidance and support when needed.

Lesson 5

Exploring Email and Online Communication

In this module, students will embark on an engaging exploration of emails and online messaging. They will learn what emails are, how they are sent and received, and the fundamentals of online messaging

Lesson 6

Strong Passwords

In this module, children will learn about creating strong and secure passwords to protect their personal information online. They will understand the importance of longer passwords, mixing different types of characters, and avoiding personal information. Children will be encouraged to keep their passwords secret and develop strategies to remember them without compromising security, such as using password patterns or creating password stories. By mastering the art of strong passwords, students will gain the superpower of protecting themselves and their information from online threats.

Lesson 7

Sharing Photos and Videos Online

In this module, children will learn about the importance of being cautious when sharing photos or videos online. They will understand guidelines such as sharing happy moments, avoiding personal information, obtaining permission before posting pictures of others, refraining from sharing embarrassing photos, and respecting privacy boundaries. Children will develop a critical mindset and learn to think twice before posting, emphasizing the need to seek adult guidance when unsure. By promoting responsible online behavior, children will learn to protect themselves and others while fostering a safe and positive digital environment.

Lesson 8

Cyberbullying

In this module, children will learn about cyberbullying, its impact, and how to respond to and prevent it. They will understand that cyberbullying involves using technology to harm or be unkind to others, such as through mean messages or sharing embarrassing pictures. Children will be empowered with strategies to address cyberbullying, including not responding to bullies, saving evidence, telling a trusted adult, blocking or unfriending bullies, reporting incidents, and becoming upstanders by supporting those who are targeted.

Lesson 9

The Importance of Asking for Help

In this module, children will learn the importance of asking for help when encountering uncertain or uncomfortable situations online. They will understand that it’s okay to seek guidance from trusted adults, such as parents, teachers, or counselors, who can provide support and answer questions. Children will be encouraged to openly share their concerns and show specific examples to adults, enabling them to better understand and address the issues.

Let’s Explore ………..