The Internet Super Heroes’ Philosophy
Spider-Man 2’s Aunt May said that “there is a hero in all of us [that] gives us strength [and] makes us noble.”
Super Heroes have the responsibility to use their powers wisely, not solely for their own benefit. They strive to improve the world, help others and right wrongs. Parry Aftab believes that there is a hero in all our children, as well. And tapping that power to do good and respect others is essential to guiding our children in using digital technologies, wireless communications and the Internet responsibly and safely.
Most Internet safety programs focus on the basic safety tips. (As Parry herself did for many years.) They are designed to teach our children and their parents about online sexual predators, how to avoid pornography and other inappropriate content and not to share personal information with strangers online. While important lessons, Parry believes that our children need to learn more. Much more. They need to be taught to respect others online, how to tell the difference between misinformation and credible sources, how to find what they are searching for and how to protect their privacy. They need to be taught not to misuse the technology and to maintain a healthy balance between their online and offline activities. They need to be taught how to function safely, privately and responsibly in a world where Internet and wireless technologies exist at every level. They need to be taught how to be good cyber-citizens.
Most of our children have never known life without the Internet. Since its launch in 1993, the Web has been a significant force in our and our children’s daily lives. Now all schools in the United States have some kind of Internet connection. And many classrooms are connected as well. Until recently it was an advantage for our children to be online. Now they are at a distinct disadvantage if they are not.
One of Parry Aftab’s favorite statements is “The greatest single risk our children face in connection with the Internet is being denied access.” She insists that she has a solution for all other risks, but none for children who are prevented from using this important educational and communication tool.
