You're Messed Up!

 

You're Messed Up!

You're messed up!  You're addicted!

Read the following articles (don't forget to read some of the comments after the articles). They all talk about the effects on teens from social networking, texting, etc - all of this "new" technology.

What are the dangers?  We're not talking about why the internet itself is dangerous - not talking about predators.  We're talking about the quality of life here - your time; how social networking makes you feel about the world, how you feel about YOURSELF, and how it conditions you to behave.  "Real life" vs. "online life".

Your first post should be about what the negative effects of your online life might be. How might things like social networking (Facebook, Twitter) affect you in a negative way? This is a difficult question because you probably don't think that these things really are affecting you negatively.  You can handle it, right?

THEN, after a day or two, in your response to a fellow student's post, argue in FAVOR of social networking - how does it 'enhance' your life - how does it make your life better?

This is a 'deep topic'.  One sentence answers are NOT going to cut it, so really think about your answers, and argue your point.

Social Media and Teens: How Does Social Media Affect Teenagers’ Mental Health

Teens Say They're Addicted to Social Media, Texting

Don't Blame Social Media if Your Teen Is Unsocial, It's Your Fault

The Cloud

The Cloud

You've probably heard it said that the world has gotten smaller.  This is true because, since the development of the Internet (the 'Cloud') and such things as Tweeting, texting, instant messaging, social networking (Facebook, Instagram), we've grown much closer.  The distance between us, geographically, doesn't matter near as much anymore.

In many ways, this is a good thing.  But, in some ways - not so much.  While the world has grown closer together, we're also closer to those people who would try to hurt us or take advantage of us.  Most people are good - but it's easier than ever for those that aren't to target people who aren't prepared, or aware of the dangers.

So, you've just met a student who has NEVER been on the internet.  Their family just moved to the area, and just signed up for internet access at home for the first time.  Knowing what you know right now, what would you warn that person about?  What would you tell them to be careful of, when they're on the Web?  How would you tell them to behave - what precautions should they take?

You don't have to look this up - base it on what you already know - what you've already learned.  You CAN research a little on the internet if you need to...

REMEMBER: Each week's blog is worth a total of 30 points: 

1st response: 10 

respond to two classmates: 20 (10ea) 

Total = 30pts

These points add up - there are at least 10-12 posts throughout the semester, which add up to a decent percentage of your grade! (An EASY percentage!)