Wide-ranging technology

There are many methods and devices for accessing the internet and online services, and their availability to children and young people is increasing. Modes of access include desktop and laptop computers, mobile phones, other handheld devices such as personal digital assistants (PDAs) and interactive games consoles, both fixed and handheld.

It is impossible to control access across all these devices, Staffordshire County Council and the Staffordshire Safeguarding Children Board have a role in to play in educating children and young people. If children and young people can learn to become safe and discriminating users of technology, wherever and whenever they use it, they will be better placed to protect themselves from the risks and challenges they may encounter.

Additionally, convergence of technologies means that learning will be less location dependent, and will be able to take place 'anytime, anywhere' at the point of need.

At the end of the day, having the technology is not the issue - it is what you do with it that matters and what it enables others to do to you.

Based upon: Safeguarding Children Online. Becta. 2007

Last Modified: 08/02/2008 13:53:46
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