Encyclopedias and Dictionaries

Application used:

• Firefox (web browser)
• Stickies

The students were introduced to the concept of encyclopedias and dictionaries. The differences and similarities between each were discussed. The Lab Administrator searched for words using dictionary.com and school.eb.com and allowed the students to see the difference between these two entries. It was also neccessary to be very specific about the process of entering the internet address. The icon of the home page at the top of the browser window serves as a landmark to describe where the address is to be inserted. The students were then allowed to open a web browser and search words from a pre-determined list. This list was generated by the Lab Administrator using Stickies. It was created through input of the students.

Additional discussion

This session also provided an opportunity to talk about the internet and the inherent dangers that can be found there. The students were instructed to only use the internet if there was an adult in the room that could help keep them from danger. The students were introduced to the concept of personal information, and how to keep it private. The danger of the internet was described as like the danger of a street. It is helpful for young children to cross a street with the assistance of an adult. Also, adult supervision can ensure the safety of young people using the internet.