Implementation Guide

 NetSmartz Workshop – Program Implementation

You can implement NetSmartz into your current program with a three-step process that allows for complete program customization within any educational setting. NetSmartz is specifically designed not to function as a traditional curriculum, but rather as an adaptable resource that can fit into the demanding curricula in today’s schools. NetSmartz activities can be used in any order and fit almost any time frame, allowing you to customize the integration of the resources to suit your students’ needs.


Step 1: Identify age group

This requires not only specifying the ages of the children, but also determining their maturity level. NetSmartz resources are classified by the age range for which they are most appropriate and intentionally overlap to accommodate various stages of maturity. For example, a third grade teacher may choose to implement NetSmartzKids resources, and then slowly introduce NSTeens materials when students demonstrate a readiness for more complicated subject matter.


Step 2: Select relevant Internet safety topics

NetSmartz resources address the following topics

    Cyberbullying
    Inappropriate content
    Predators
    Revealing too much information
    Spyware, spam, and scams

Each age group faces a probable set of risks online; therefore, not all topics are covered in each NetSmartz series. For example, there is no statistical need for younger children (ages 5-10) to discuss sexting, nor is it an age-appropriate topic, so it is not included in NetSmartzKids materials.


Step 3: Select NetSmartz resources

NetSmartz has an expanding collection of resources that address different aspects of the Internet, the risks associated with each, and how to use the Internet responsibly. These resources work within a variety of time constraints and can be downloaded for free.

    Videos –Animations and documentary shorts teach Internet safety concepts through song, rhyme, comedy, or first-person narrative.
    Activity Cards – Classroom lessons are organized by grade level (Primary, Intermediate, Middle School, and High School) and aligned with the NCTE Standards for the English Language Arts, the ISTE National Educational Technology Standards, and the American Cancer Society’s National Health Education Standards. Each activity card reinforces the lessons presented in a NetSmartz video.
    Teachable Recipes – Recipes that combine Internet safety lessons with culinary fun to make safety education interactive.
    Internet Safety Rules – Age-appropriate rules help provide clear guidelines for safer Internet use and can also be used as a contract or pledge.
    Internet Safety Presentations – Interactive presentations are tailored for specific audiences - parents and communities, tweens, teens, and younger children. These presentations include current statistics, online resources, videos, and expert tips.
    Handouts – Tip sheets and issue-specific guides are available for use in schools, public facilities, or community presentations.