A case study investigation on the safe use of the internet by 12-18 year olds in an Irish post primary school.

This case study examines the nature of Internet use by students and teachers in a post primary school and attempts to determine to what extent students’ online activities reflect unsafe practices and patterns. It investigates how much students and teachers know about Internet safety and establishes from what source students have received information on safe Internet use to date. Finally, it investigates whether the study school is following recommended guidelineson Internet safety strategies. Research involved a mixed methodology approach. A variety of sources were used to gather information thus ensuring the notion of triangulation. Teaching staff and students from the study school were surveyed, semi structured interviews with management and teaching staff were conducted, comments made from teachers concerning students’ safe Internet use were noted and relevant ICT documentation was reviewed. The study identified that students and teachers are using the Internet both at home and in school. Overall, students are involved in reasonably safe practices whilst online, however, there are a small minority engaging in what might be deemed ‘risky’ behaviour. In relation to ensuring students e-safety, some teachers have provided training to students on safe Internet use. In addition, the school has implemented an AUP and filtering systems are in place on the school network, however, evidence suggests there are a number of areas that need addressing. These include shortcomings with the AUP, the lack of training on safe Internet use reported by students and teachers and the bypassing of filtering systems by a number of individuals. Accordingly, this study suggests the need for continuing work to be carried out on promoting and ensuring Internet safety for students and young people both inside and outside of school. It recommends that schools follow the recommended guidelines set out by the NCTE on the implementation of AUPs, by involving relevant parties in the drawing up and implementation of the policy and in providing training to all staff on its contents so that they can ultimately relay the information to students. Research also highlights the need to educate teachers and parents on potential Internet dangers as it is crucial in ensuring young people are kept fully informed on how to make safe and responsible decisions whilst online.