What is the Internet?

The Internet is simply a series of computer networks linked to one another around the world, like a big net or web, communicating almost instantaneously with one another. These computer networks are physically linked to one another with telephone, radio, cable lines or via satellite. Networks from other continents are inter-connected by the large, intercontinental telephone and fibre optic communication lines that run beneath the ocean floor.

The World Wide Web makes up a very large percent of the Internet. Schools access the World Wide Web initially through the Baglan IT Centre web site where amongst other things there is a Teacher Support area, Resource area and Curriculum Links page with a section on Young Users. Additional information is quickly found through typing in key words or file names through different search engines, such as Yahoo and AltaVista. The search results from the search engine are then listed and the teacher can choose from the titles found.

Some of the most creative usage of the Internet can start by using the World Wide Web as a search tool for information/images on themes and topics. Teachers should use the Internet in relevant situations not in isolation and can download images to use within a DTP package in order to create materials for pupils. All sites should be visited prior to use with the children and bookmarked for ease of access.

There are undesirable materials on the Internet so adult supervision is required when children are using any sites. The teacher can closely monitor computer screens to ensure that children are not visiting sites of an adult nature.

Examples of using the Internet:

• to build up scenes, making choices
• to complete simple maths tasks/ games
• to build and sequence stories
• to provide simple adventures
• seasonal tasks related to topics
• to access suitable database software, which the children might be familiar with
• interactive stories
• e-mailing other classes and schools (or known personalities - eg. Father Christmas, Sebastian Swan etc.)
• use of sites to support class themes - there are sites specific to the Early Years
• to provide video links to sites of specific interest - eg. zoos, wildlife parks etc.

Classroom Strategies for the Internet