This reflective journal is based on the ALIA online content regulation in the context of students’ learning in school.

It has been a common operation for schools to apply internet filters to restrict students’ access to certain websites or specific content on a website, such as a video on YouTube. I think we need to approach this discussion from two perspectives. Firstly, by using school internet filters, it can improve students’ safety and prevent them from accessing inappropriate content, thereby simplifying school network management responsibilities. Additionally, web filters potentially could offer some advantages, such as improving students’ concentration and creating a smoother learning environment for better well-being development. Moreover, web filters in schools could significantly reduce teachers’ pressure when conducting any online research or activities. From this perspective, filters are a necessity for every school. They could be considered by schools as safeguards for students.

However, from the other end, I will argue that internet filtering will limit our freedom to access information and ideas. As mentioned by the Australian Library and Information Association, ‘Access to electronic information resources should not be restricted except as required by law’ (2002). What we need to do is assist students with the necessary skills, such as digital literacy, to teach them what to choose, how to choose, and why to choose.  Batch (2014) also pointed out that the implications of internet filtering create both an educational and a social issue, as educators cannot teach students to navigate ethical choices online.  We should promote and facilitate responsible access to quality digital information for young people at school, so they are equipped with the skills and knowledge to use the internet and electronic information efficiently and effectively in the future.

Australian Library and Information Association. (2002). ALIA on online content regulation. https://www.alia.org.au/Web/Research-and-Publications/Guidelines/ALIA-on-online-content-regulation.aspx

Batch, K. R. (2014). Fencing out knowledge: Impacts of the Children’s Internet Protection Act 10 years later. Office for Information Technology Policy, American Library Association.