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Since YouTube popped on to the scene, anyone can easily create video and upload to their own YouTube channel. Where in lies the problem with safety and inappropriate videos. YouTube has quickly become the go-to for how to do or learn just about anything. For instruction, teachers have been creating playlists of videos for their units and special areas of student interest. And while there are some areas of concern, technology tools are constantly being created to remedy inappropriate ads and eliminate the distractions of clutter on the screen.
Google Chrome Extensions I Like:
- Turn Off the Lights - places a light bulb icon in the Omnibox that darkens all areas of the open window except for the video. Options allow you to change the color and adjust the opacity, plus more.
- Magic Actions for YouTube - places an orange square icon in the Omnibox with options of Cinema mode with no ads or comments, auto ad bock, volume control, plus more.
Web Tools I Like:
- QuieTube and ViewPure/Purify- bookmarklet tools, simply drag their buttons to your Bookmarks bar then, when you are on a video you want to watch, you click and they strip away all the content on the page except for the video.
- Tube Chop - sometimes all you need is a small portion of a video, take the URL of the video you want to chop and trim both the beginning and end to what you need. You can then share it via a link or embed the chopped video on your site or page.
I definitely believe YouTube has a place in our classrooms. The basic premise of the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) is to protect children by blocking access to obscene, pornographic, and otherwise harmful material. Schools and libraries that enjoy a discounted Internet rate must follow certain parameters. Children's online use must be monitored and facilities must provide education in online safety. Also, policies must be put in place for the safety of children while online.Teamed with CIPA requirements (thankfully they don’t require blocking of YouTube), district filters, good classroom management, and continual digital citizenship instruction, YouTube can be a practical, safe tool for instruction.
Google’s YouTube settings for Google Apps for Education administrators provides another avenue of safety to restrict inappropriate content as well as whitelist content for signed-in users. Common sense practices are still a must do for 21st century teachers. Best practice dictates thoroughly previewing materials prior to student viewing and even initial preview on teacher screens before displaying to a whole class. So, in a nutshell, with proper training, practicing professional responsibility, monitoring, and modeling YouTube can be used safely and effectively in classrooms.
Until next time,
Remember to follow your treasure map!
Sydney~
