Internet in the Classroom

What are the advantages of using the Internet in our classrooms? In what ways might it be used?  Are there any concerns or problems with using the Internet?  How can these problems be overcome? 

     The Internet is an amazing resource.  It can allow us to experience things that we normally could not in our everyday lives.  One advantage to using the Internet is that there are many reliable resources that can be found for almost any topic.  The disadvantage, however, is that sometimes those reliable resources are difficult to find and students might become discouraged if they get lost in their search. You could try to lessen this problem by having students research in pairs; two heads are better than one.  Students might find those resources more easily and if not, they do not feel stupid. 

     Another fun activity that can be done using the Internet is to go on a virtual field trip.  This allows students to experience a place that they could not visit otherwise.  Students will enjoy using technology to discover a place they have never before seen! 

     I plan on using the Internet frequently in my classroom. This means that my students will be exposed to potentially bad sites.  I will make sure to keep an eye out for inappropriate sites and encourage proper computer navigation.