Sunday, August 29, 2010

Hector’s World and Google work together to promote digital citizenship for kids

We’re pleased to have joined together with Hector’s World™ to support the development of a new online resource, the Hector’s World “Tech Cave”, which provides tools for kids to teach themselves and their communities about how technology works. We announced the new resources last week at Mission Heights School in Auckland, New Zealand, and got lots of great feedback from the kids and grandparents present.


Hector’s World is a free online teaching and learning resource created in New Zealand and used in schools and early childhood centres across Australia and New Zealand to teach ‘digital citizenship’ – the smart, safe and responsible use of technology. It offers knowledge and skills in a fun, interactive environment in order to help children become confident and respectful digital citizens, encouraging them to think critically and make wise choices as they make their way in the online world.

The new Tech Cave section of www.hectorsworld.com explains how different aspects of technology work, from the internet to mobile phones and GPS systems, providing kids with the tools they need to use technology effectively and safely. The first two Tech Cave modules, on the internet and web search, have been created with the support of Google, as part of our work to promote safer online experiences.

We’re a very proud supporter of Hector’s World, which is internationally recognised for its innovative approach and emphasis on empowering children, while supporting the teachers and parents charged with their care. In 2009, we worked with the Hector’s World team to launch their YouTube channel, and in turn they have contributed content to our YouTube Safety Centre.

The launch of the Tech Cave will help to ensure even more kids are well positioned to take advantage of the benefits of the internet in a smart, safe and responsible way.

To find out more about Hector’s World and the Tech Cave see www.hectorsworld.com or www.youtube.co.nz/hectorsworldnz.