Bullying and cyberbullying are more prevalent than ever. It occurs in our communities and homes. And sadly, even in K-12 schools.
As per a survey,
- 47.5% of students aged 6-10 have been bullied in school through online sources.
- 56.4% of students aged 11-13 reported being bullied online.
- 59.9% of students aged 14-18 reported bullying.
- 54.3% of students aged 19 and older reported bullying.
The Consequences:
Bullying of any kind can be devastating, and its effects can be catastrophic. Bullying can be of any type. Some of the instances experienced by students are harassment, threats, demeaning through words & actions, or embarrassment on an online platform. Students who are victims of cyberbullying often experience anger, isolation, depression, humiliation, etc. In extreme cases, self-harm can also be the consequence of cyberbullying.
The Source:
Unlimited access to technology is the #1 reason for this cyberbullying (a survey revealed), indicating a 67% contribution of technology. Inappropriate access to technology anyway results in negative consequences, and the same goes for school students, leading to cyberbullying. Using technology to prevent cyberbullying can help both students and schools create a safe and secure learning environment. Web Filters in schools exactly do that, combating the possible chances of cyberbullying.
How Does Implementing Web Filters in Schools Help?
Here are a few ways school filters help combat cyberbullying:
- Content Monitoring: School filter equips the teachers and school authorities with content monitoring capabilities, helping them scan emails, read messages, and check online posts to detect potentially harmful language and other cyberbullying content. With such features, educators can save students from becoming victims of events like name-calling, threats, and demeaning comments.
- Keyword Detection: The school admins can decide on specific harmful and hurtful keywords or phrases and set up their monitoring tools to detect the possibility of cyberbullying in online communication. When the school filter system detects the selected keywords, it generates trigger alerts for further investigation.
- Real-time Monitoring: School filters enable teachers and administrators to monitor students’ device screens in real time. It means they can observe online interactions, identify any possibility of cyberbullying, intervene, and take appropriate action right at the moment.
- Blocking Inappropriate Websites: School filters prevent accessing inappropriate webpages and social media platforms that can subject them to cyberbullying. These filters are great for limiting unwanted content, thus helping students learn in a safe and secure environment.
- Chat and Messaging Supervision: School filters both within and outside of school support, allowing educators to provide complete protection to students in every environment. The system helps educators keep a tab on cyberbullying activities and conversations, allowing them to intervene at the right time.
- Alerts and Reporting: One of the standouts of implementing web filters in schools is real-time reporting. These systems generate alerts when any cyberbullying activity or behavior is detected. The admin responsible for handling these systems receives a notification about the incidents, who then reviews and takes appropriate actions like student counseling or implies specific disciplinary measures.
- Education and Awareness: Teachers and educators can use school filters to spread awareness and educate students about the harmful effects of cyberbullying. It may include providing information about the importance of responsible behavior and treating others respectfully, whether in person or online.
- Personal Monitoring: Teachers can put more effort into students who are mischievous and more susceptible to cyberbullying, especially those who have gone through these incidents or are vulnerable to them. This targeted approach is accomplished through school filters, allowing early intervention and timely support.
- Parental Involvement: School filters help facilitate communication between educators and parents, allowing them to share information about detected cyberbullying incidents. It helps parents to stay informed, helping them address issues promptly at home or with the help of the school.
Note:
Privacy Considerations You Must Not Overlook:
While school filters help schools to protect students from online vulnerabilities, the teacher must conduct monitoring by ensuring the student’s privacy. Additionally, school filters should be implemented carefully while adhering to laws and regulations to ensure the protection of the student’s personal information.
Conclusion:
With students so much exposed to the digital world and technology, implementing school filters that are specifically designed to address the incidents of bullying in K12 schools is critical to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for students, helping them learn without any worries.