Teaching and using the Internet in your programs is important for two reasons. First, the Internet and other networking technologies are dramatically changing almost every aspect of society, including business, government, entertainment and science. The way in which the Internet enables and encourages new kinds of communication and collaboration among people all over the world is truly astonishing, and using the Internet presents a new set of skills children must master if they are to succeed in the networked world.

Second, education is one area that is being thoroughly revolutionized by the Internet. By providing the means to reach and interact with people, groups, libraries, learning centers and Web sites around the globe, the Internet offers new methods for research and collaboration and new learning opportunities for children.

Luckily, learning about and using the Internet is easy. Remember that the Internet is really just about one thing: communicating with people. Many books and Web sites are available to help you learn more about the Internet and online communications, so we won't go into everything here. Instead, this section provides some introductory lesson ideas to use with kids to introduce them to the Internet and the Web:

• What Does the Internet Look Like?
• Going on a Surfing Safari
• What's the Weather

Elsewhere on YouthLearn are articles on teaching about and with technology, using email, and creating Web pages. Plus the technology section of YouthLearn provides a wealth of information on setting up and running a learning center.

Is there more to understanding the Internet and network communications? You bet. You can explore everything from shopping on line (also known as e-commerce) to new wireless devices, but don't get bogged down in technology and buzz words. The resources here will get you started so that you can introduce the new communications media in your classes.

Whatever your current level of knowledge and experience, you may find that the kids in your classes already have various levels of exposure to the Internet. Some may have none at all, some may have computers at home, and others may have limited knowledge through friends with Internet access or discussions in school. That's why it's a good idea to try some journal or mapping activities before getting started to assess the knowledge across the whole class. Check out the sample activity called What Does the Internet Look Like?.

As we've said before in discussing other technologies, it's okay if you don't know much more than the kids about the technology; you can learn from and along with the class.