Article Review #2

Google’s encrypted search creates problems for schools

http://www.eschoolnews.com/2010/06/14/googles-encrypted-search-creates-problems-for-schools/

Description:
    This article concentrates on the Google search engine and tools being blocked by K-12 programs because its results are not filtered.  The Google platform (with Gmail and Documents, etc. ) are open to sites that are impervious to the filters that schools use.  This is very upsetting to schools that rely on the filters to protect and monitor students and staff.   Districts that block the Google sites are also having problems as students and staff find a way around the blocks (by typing https:// instead of http://). Google has suggested using the SafeSearch capability on the site that will automatically block any sites that have adult or suggestive content.  Google acknowledges that this is a temporary fix, but hopefully this will be a starting point to fixing the overall problem.

Analysis: 
      This article definitely addresses a concern of parents and school staff in all situations with technology: security, both to the students and away from the students.  The open platform of Google is very user-friendly and accessible because it is open and so large.  Most schools could definitely benefit from using this platform.  However, with this security issue, schools are being forced away from Google.

Reflection:
     As a teacher and a student, there are many technologies available and useful in the classroom.  However, with increasing security issues, teachers are forced to pick and choose which technologies are actually available to use.  The ironic issue is that most of our students, once our backs are turned, are accessing these sites because they know how to get around the filters anyway.  It does become a matter of ethics that prohibit us from using these educational sites for educational purposes, because our employers tell us not to.