Journal 2- Threat of Security

In response to "Threat of Security",our world is causing us to move forward in an unthinkable direction, but also causing fear that is a reality. Every job I have had in my short career life, has been very advanced with their computer equipment. Much of my computer skills were not learned in school, but at my office of employment. Each company was always getting a better computer program, or upgrading their systems. It felt great to always have the best and newest technology. The problem is that at my home, I don't spend my money on constant upgrades. I am hoping to transition to the Microsoft 07! The difference, unfortunately, is that schools have to fight for money to spend on the latest technology. It is a privilege to be in a district where you have access to all the necessary protection, programs and training.

The Internet has become such a valuable tool for learning, but also carries many dangers. It is hard to believe that society has the very best information at their fingertips, but at the very same time and place, there are such outrageous and inappropriate items. In high school we would always try to type in bad websites to see if the system had blocked everything. You could always find something "bad", or otherwise not allowed. It makes sense that teachers would rather not have the inconvenience of worrying which student is hacking or bringing on a copyright lawsuit.

1.) How will you monitor security in your classroom?
Thinking about how teachers must monitor their students computer usage and enforce policies is a little intimidating. I am interested in teaching at an Elementary school, so some of those problems won't be as serious as at the high school level. Computer technology is just as important in my eyes at that level. With children watching so much television these days, having a source that is more stimulating than the teacher can be a bonus! I will have to ensure that all students are being respectful of caring for the classroom computers. I am not anticipating having to regulate website usage in my classroom, but if I did teach at a higher level, I would have many boundaries.

I have been in a couple situations in the office workplace where people have gotten fired for an email, or computer usage that was inappropriate. I remember when I got my first job and my sister was warning me that the IT manager could read every email so to be really careful what I said. I had never known that. From then on I never used my work email for personal use. This experience would make me be the teacher that can never be too careful.

2.)What will you look for in computer security?
I have confidence that the security will become easier with the latest technology. The latest products or programs and security measures made specially to fit the policies of the schools will be helpful. It is a risk to implement such a vass array of network, but there is far too much to lose without the presence of technology in the classrooms. At home, computer technology and security can continue to be a risk. Someone could steal your identity and the possibilities are endless in today's society. I am hopeful that things will become more secure in the future.