Even today as I was looking through Facebook I came across a friend of mine who posted about copyright images and blogging. The author explained her side of the story-she had an image saved on her computer which she thought would work perfectly for her post. She didn’t have time to research and gain permission, so she used it and forgot about it, until she received a letter from the host of her blog informing her about her illegal use. The blogger goes on to explain how she was able to contact the original artist and apologize and how the two were able to become friends despite the ordeal. Now they each speak out against improper use of copyrighted images and encourage everyone to respect the works of others.

While this is only one example, it isn't the most unique. Technology allows people to create upon the works of others, but netiquette insists that we do it properly. Sampling in music, collages of artwork, and even quotes of literature can all be copyrighted and it rests on the user to insure that they are properly attributing their sources and gaining permission. If they chose to ignore this step, they face legal action and potential embarrassment or loss of content. The world will only get more and more confusing as more information is created and shared. However, it is imperative as teachers that we do our best to follow correct laws and encourage the same of our students. My fourteen-year-old brother doesn’t understand why it is illegal to torrent information, but it’s up to me and my fellow future educators to instill an understanding of copyright and legality in an online world.

On another note, teenagers also have to deal with the new threat of cyber bulling-an intense and often extremely form of verbal and mental abuse that occurs online. These students are subjected to a form of bullying that isn’t closely regulated by adults such as parents or teachers. It is important to stress to our students that they can come to us if they are ever at the receiving end of the bullying. This will allow adults to intervene before it is too late. Teachers must also stress that online bullying is hurtful, that it isn’t a simple act to do when one is bored, but that it has a multitude of consequences. Thankfully, I have never had to experience cyber bulling myself, but I worry about any student that feels they must face it alone.

Link to the article about copyrighted images and blogging: http://blogher.com/bloggers-dont-do-what-i-did-pay-attention-when-selecting-images-and-make-sure-you-have-permission-us