Leigh in Azerbaijan

Al Upton’s Mini Legends shutdown

I visited Al’s classroom a few years back in Glenelg, South Australia, and learnt much about technology usage in the classroom. The main idea that revolutionised my teaching practice was his idea of getting cheap recycled computers and setting up 6 computers in a classroom. I didn’t even have them networked, but it was so helpful that kids could work on a computer for Maths or English. We still had a computer lab but that was only available for a short time each week, whereas my room became a model of computer use across the curriculum. I pushed desks to the outside walls and set up 4 desks around each computer, hanging power lines from the ceiling. It was all a bit daggy but it worked well and kids’ motivation increased significantly.

Al is at the forefront of setting up blogs with his miniLegends. For some years he has taught his Grade 3 kids about blogging and what is required to keep kids safe on the internet. The Education Dept however in SA has asked (March 08) for his site to be closed while they investigate safety issues. This is despite much praise from parents and educators around the world.

This link shows that the closure of the blog has generated some concern around the world.

I like to think that the issue might be resolved soon by establishing an acceptable protocol. I am concerned however, that the different lenses through which people view this situation might be irreconcilable. If that is the case, internet risks at home will increase and educational opportunities will be lost. It’s already been more than a month since the closure.