UNI: Multicultural Perspectives

Module 6: Internet Child Safety Resources
Your Multicultural Project

Child Protection and Internet Safety Laws

You may choose to use the Internet to facilitate all or part of your Multicultural project. When you work with students on the Internet, you need to be aware of your legal responsibilities. There are a number of important laws that govern children's access to the Internet. A general familiarity with the law is always a good idea. More important than general awareness is knowing how to find specific information. If your administrator or a parent wants the 'letter of the law', refer to these websites.

Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA)

The Children's Internet Protection Act requires schools receiving Year Four eRate support to install filtering software on school Internet systems. The law is controversial because it represents top down government censorship. Schools are now trying to figure out how to provide filtering software that doesn't break the bank financially or filter out legitimate educational material. You are not expected to read these articles in depth. Instead, develop an awareness of the issues and laws, and know that you can get the details here any time you need them.

Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998 (COPPA)

The Children's Online Privacy Protection Act seeks to protect children under 13 from potentially harmful marketing and data-collection practices. The law requires that online services obtain verifiable parent consent before gathering any information about children.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

Federal law guarantees adult students access to their records as well as a right to privacy. This applies to both classroom and online situations.

Sample Internet Use Policies and Letters

Your school should have an AUP (Acceptable Use Policy) governing access to the Internet. It is important that you understand and comply with this policy. Here are several model policies to consider. Perhaps you can improve your local policy.

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