Internet Access Is Made Safe for Kids
Jointly developed by CompuServe and SurfWatch Software, Internet in a Box for Kids combines Internet access, parental/teacher control and an online community.
The package includes the SPRY Mosaic Web browser, SPRY Mail, low-cost Internet access, an instructional video, a free subscription to a children's Web community called FreeZone and a custom version of SurfWatch, which blocks access to material on the Internet deemed inappropriate for children.
"Giving students and teachers the software tools to freely navigate the Internet is critical for educators who want to tightly couple computing in their classrooms," said David Strom, co-chair of the Citizen's Advisory Committee on Technology and Computers for the Port Washington Union Free School District in New York.
Through FreeZone, children can make new friends, learn and explore. It includes a Home Page Builder, homework assistant and direct links to thousands of Internet sites for kids. FreeZone content is closely monitored for appropriateness.
SurfWatch works by blocking access to a list of Internet sites -- updated daily -- known to contain sexually-oriented material, profanity, etc. CompuServe Internet Division, Seattle, WA, (800) 557-9614. W
This article originally appeared in the 03/01/1996 issue of THE Journal.