Web Publishing for Students
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Web Publishing for Students
from THE ELECTRONIC CLASSROOM:
http://www.EdGate.com, January 16, 2001
The World Wide Web provides a wonderful showcase for student work. It offers
a quick and convenient means to publishing, as well as to accessing work published
by
other young people from all over the world.
The anonymity of the Internet persuades students to shed their inhibitions and
to express themselves freely. It boosts confidence and provides a rewarding
experience for students to see their work in print. Although this opportunity
did exist with traditional methods of
publishing, the added dimensions of the Web now make publishing more exciting
for students. They can illustrate their writing, or add pictures, sound, graphics,
color, and other effects. Altogether, the Web is a far more attractive medium
with which to work than the old black-and-white print medium.
The Web, however, is not without its darker side. The freedom to publish on
the Internet brings its own dangers. It's up to you as teachers and computer
specialists to create a safe environment in which your students can work and
publish on the Web. It is reassuring that most schools and parent communities
share this concern.
Many schools have adopted an acceptable use policy for the Internet. It's important
that you familiarize yourself with these guidelines and that you direct your
students to adopt certain safety measures and a code of ethics while publishing
their work.
1. Encourage a positive attitude, but set boundaries. Encourage your students
to write and to express themselves freely. Introduce them to contests that cover
essays, short stories, and poetry -- anything that encourages them to write
regularly. While introducing them to the tenets of quality writing, also educate
them about safe and responsible publishing practices. Avoid using their names,
addresses, and photographs. These should not be available to the public at large.
2. Form a peer committee to review work. Kids are more open to the opinions
of their peers. Have a review committee read all work to ensure it is appropriate
for publication. Make sure that it does not violate any school policies, state
or federal laws.
3. Talk about IPR and libel laws. Talk to students about intellectual property
rights and the possible consequences of plagiarism. Warn them of the prospect
of litigation for
libelous or defamatory statements. Concrete examples of issues are easy to find,
and will help drive the point home.
4. Listen to your students. While you encourage the dreams of young writers
and artists, listen to their doubts and fears too. Make sure they tell you of
online encounters that are improper or disturbing. Keep channels of communication
open, so that they feel free to talk.
There is a great deal of opportunity on the Internet. Allow your students
access to it in a guided manner, so that they can make the best use of the rich
resources that are part of the World Wide Web.
This site began in March 1998 and was created by Janet
Luch. Email questions and comments to: studyplans@yahoo.com
.