You’ve probably gone to a website on your Chromebook and have Google tell you it’s blocked. It’s pretty annoying isn’t it?
The district has to block certain websites that are marked as “13+” in their user agreements. This includes websites like Discord, Instagram, and even some Youtube videos. They also block websites that could distract students from their work.
Teachers can also watch students screens through Linewize. It lets them close tabs, block websites, and even lock their computers. That feels like an invasion of students’ privacy.
Its frustrating,” says Mr. Windes. “Some of the videos I try to show my students are blocked so I can’t use them.”
A lot of teachers feel this way because various educational videos and websites are blocked and can’t be used to teach.
I agree that some websites definitely need to be blocked, but most should remain unblocked for when students have freetime. Especially educational websites and videos where kids can learn.
Plus, if students are doing something they shouldn’t be, or doing something when they shouldn’t, teachers can just close the tabs.
Sometimes, students finish their work and have a bunch of freetime before class ends where they should be able to do what they want. If all the websites are blocked, then they’ll be bored because they don’t have anything to do.
