Article Reading Reflection

1. What article did you choose to read for your fourth article?
"Fighting Internet Filth" by Mario Hipol
2. What were the most important things you learned from the readings?
I was blown away by Elder Ballard's talk on the family unit and the destruction that the internet and television can bring to it. He was so straight forward and harsh, but it made me realize that even the shows that I do not think are a big deal because they are funny and everyone watches them carry an underlying message that sex is good and the family is dysfunctional. He said, "The choices we make in media can be symbolic of the choices we make in life." I remember I used to watch a show in high school that everyone watched and my parents had to sit me down and tell me I couldn't watch it anymore because I was acting like the characters. It's scary, but it happens. I also really loved the tips that the church website gives on how to safeguard your home from pornography. Keeping the computers in open areas where everyone can see the screen and having a reliable filtering system are great ways to keep you and your family safe. I also learned that I should not let my kids surf the internet or just get on to chat. If kids have other things going on in their lives, they won't have to do that! The Grahams taught me that I need to keep up on technology and talk to my kids about it so they know I am on the same page as them and also provide technologies that you can do together that are fun and wholesome. This would be like a family blog or creating a movie from pictures. Finally, Elder Hipol taught me that I can make a difference. I have to have confidence that I can control technology in my own home.
3. How will what you have read influence your actions as a parent and/or teacher of children and youth?
I realize now that I will be much more aware of what is going on in my home and in the world of technology in general. When I first started reading I decided that I would be the kind of parent that only had set hours or limits when my children could get on the internet or use computer technology so that I could monitor it and no harm would be done. But I realize that is not very likely or possible and the other readings taught me that there is wholesome technology that I can introduce my kids too. We can do technology together and it can be a good thing. I will need to continually update myself on the computer games and technologies so I can be prepared to help my kids make the best decisions. I will also do this for my students at school.
4. How can you use what you have learned from the reading to have a positive influence on family and friends?
The best way that I can influence my friends and family is to be a good example. I have noticed throughout my life that some people just need someone to show them that they can say no. I can also introduce new technologies to them so that they do not think that I am trying to take away their freedom. When you do that, kids rebel. My showing my peers and family that my house will be a safe internet and television home, they will see the good and do the same.