The OneMinute Geek

The Problem:

Last week we took a quick look at some of the issues a parent must consider when introducing their child to computing. As a follow-up to preparing for the new school year, how can you help your child embrace the full educational potential of computers?

The Solution:

1. First and foremost, as always, ensure safe computing. You must be sure your child's computer is well protected from all the bad things out there on the Internet. This means installing a firewall, having current antivirus and anti spyware software, and keeping current on all operating system updates. Also, it cannot be mentioned too often that safety is a parent’s responsibility. Clearly define acceptable computer use, be sure your child understands the boundaries you set, and put the computer in a public place in the house so you can monitor your child's activities.
2. Ask your child's school if they have any recommendations for hardware and software. Although Mac and PCs offer more compatibility than ever, you may want to be sure your child has the same computing platform as the school. You certainly want to be sure that the software is the same.
3. Show your child the things you know. This includes the power of search engines such as www.Google.com and the convenience of www.Dictionary.com, www.RhymeZone.com, www.HowStuffWorks.com and www.AJKids.com. Be sure to explain how to launch programs like Microsoft Word, how to use spell check, how to copy and paste images, and how to format documents with cool things like different colored text, multi-sized fonts and bold titles. Convey a sense of exploration and let the excitement be a part of the on-going learning experience.
4. Demonstrate how the computer can be used as a neat organizational tool. Open up the calendar features and suggest adding deadlines, special events and To-Do lists. Don't forget to show where the calculator is located (Start > Programs > Accessories > Calculator.)
5. Sit down with your child and explore sites such as: www.TheBeeHive.org/school, and www.Help-Your-Child-Learn.org, www.KidsDomain.com and www.LessonPlansPage.com
6. Explain the seriousness of plagiarism, how easy it is to do and why it's illegal. A good starting point for discussion is: http://sja.ucdavis.edu/avoid.htm. Demonstrate how easy it is to identify a plagiarized sentence. Pick up a book and select any seven consecutive words. Type these into Google, inside quotes. Most of the time, Google will identify the source. Your child may also want to know that, beyond this simple Google test, used by teachers everywhere, there is also software, designed to help educators detect plagiarism. (If you’d like to test it out, you can get a free 30-day trial version of such software at http://www.plagiarism-finder.com/ )
7. Ask your child's teachers how they are using information technology. For example, can you, as a parent, view homework assignments and grades online? Is it acceptable for your child to email completed homework directly to the teacher? Does the teacher accept (and answer) questions from parents via email? What is the ratio of students to computers in the classroom? What kind of computer training does the school provide? Does the school offer extracurricular classes, such as web page design, computer troubleshooting, animation and game programming? If so, how does your child sign up for these? When?

James Kerr is President/CEO of SuperGeeks, a Hawaii-based computer service and repair company (www.supergeeks.net). Please feel free to send your questions, comments and suggestions to Mr. Kerr. He can be reached at kerr@supergeeks.net and 942-0773.