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Computer Technology Project Ideas

• Internet Safety
• Computer Pollution and Recycling
  

Internet Safety
Teachers can promote conscientious online activities by giving students the opportunity to address online safety in the classroom and in the community. Students can do research on internet safety and create their own set of rules and guidelines for safe internet use. These rules could be posted in places throughout the school and in the community where people have access to technology. Technology centers that educate community members on how to navigate the world wide web may appreciate navigation tips and suggestions, including website recommendations, from students. Students can also develop a project or handout to educate the adults in their life about the internet and what they like to do on the internet, ensuring that their guardians stay informed about their surfing practices.

The following are just some of the internet safety guidelines students can learn to address:

1. Many people on the internet may not be who they seem to be, and websites don’t necessarily tell the whole truth on a particular topic or about a product that is being sold. People can lie on the internet.

2. The internet is not completely anonymous. People, including students, can be held accountable for what they do on the internet.

3. Children should never reveal their age, their full name, their school name, their address or post pictures of themselves on the internet.

4. It is advisable to use a fake name while using discussion forums or chat rooms. Some discussion forums and chat rooms are monitored for safety and people should not be discouraged from using them. However, it is just as critical to exercise caution in these situations.

5. Child pornography or attempting a face-to-face meeting with a child through the internet is illegal. Students should be encouraged to tell an adult if they come across any activity or a website that makes them uncomfortable. Adults should know to contact local law enforcement to report inappropriate conduct.

Computer Pollution and Recyling
Here are a few suggestions for helping your computer and/or science students address computer pollution and computer recycling in your classroom and community:

1. Students can team up with community technology centers in the region and develop a campaign to get the word out in the community that consumers should recycle their old computers as they purchase new ones.

2. Local computer stores (Gateway Country, Comp USA, etc.) and electronic stores (Circuit City, Best Buy, etc.) can distribute student-designed and student-researched computer recycling brochures to customers.

3. Students can develop a campaign to encourage computer owners to recyle their ink cartridges.

4. Students can host a "Computer Recycling Day" in the community and collect computers and various computer equipment. This equipment can be donated to organizations that refurbish computers and give them to schools and community organizations.

Pennsylvania's Digital Divide Initiative >>

Grant Opportunities provide additional project ideas >>