Free E-Mail Service Supports Education
Gaggle Inc. offers a free service that provides safe, controlled e-mail accounts for education. Educators and students can use their e-mail from any computer connected to the Internet through Gaggle.Net. Because it's Web based, it d'esn't require special hardware, software or subscription fees. The Gaggle Network's e-mail service is also in compliance with the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998.
The free version, which is supported by advertising, is limited to 2 MB of space per user, stores messages for 65 days, and comes with a password and ID system for teachers and students. Built-in security features allow teachers and administrators optimum control, letting them set up e-mail for approved senders only. They can also block spam and questionable e-mail from getting through the system, as well as student messages that contain inappropriate language. For a fee, teachers and administrators can customize domain names for the system as well.
The Gaggle Network also offers two subscription-based services. The basic subscription version of Gaggle is the same as the free service except it d'esn't contain advertising. The premium version also contains no advertising and offers many additional features, including 25 MB of storage per user, virus protection, teacher-controlled chat rooms and message boards, and online testing tools. In addition, schools and districts have the option of purchasing their own Gaggle e-mail server. Gaggle Inc., Sherman Oaks, CA, (800) 288-7750, www.gaggle.net.
This article originally appeared in the 06/01/2002 issue of THE Journal.