Harry Harrold's Page

I'm sure a load of people here are familiar with Danah Boyd, a US researcher into youth behaviour on social network sites. She's always worth a read.

This post of hers talks about the recent US "MySpace bullying" case, and one quote is particularly relevant here - "We need online social workers that can connect with kids and help them understand their options. "

http://www.zephoria.org/thoughts/archives/2008/11/30/reflections_on.html

Inspiring stuff...

I'm doing some work with a MySpace group promoting some anti-bullying videos produced by young people.

Occasionally, an inappropriate advert crops up and this is causing concern. I believe I've exerted all the influence I can over the adverts.

- The owning profile of the group is set to age 16, which is around the average for the young people who've produced the work.
- The group is categorised as "non-profit and philanthropic" which may help.
- The group page carries a disclaimer about the ad… Continue

I'm working with an organisation called the Garage who place a disclaimer on their social media presences. My contact says "No problem - it's good to share good practice.", so I'd welcome comments from the group.

Web safety...

* Do not give out personal details like your full name, phone number, school or address online. Choose a nickname instead.
* Remember that people may not be who they say they are online. Web friendships are fine but if you are unsure or unhappy about anything someone say… Continue