Nasties in the Net: children and censorship on the Web Available to Purchase

Focuses specifically on children’s experiences of the Internet, including the extent of their exposure to sexual, racial or other unpleasant material, how teachers view this problem, and what action schools are taking. The questionnaire survey found a higher number of children with Internet access at home than previous studies; this was regardless of the socio‐economic group. Figures of those who had seen unpleasant or offensive material were also higher than previous research has shown. Teachers’ views were also canvassed. Many staff were unaware of their schools’ Internet use policies, and had little or no training in using the Internet with children. The study concludes that more needs to be done to both meet government online targets and to address the issue of free Internet use with children’s protection. Suggestions regarding the role of librarians are offered.