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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of computer should I buy?
Before this question can be answered, ask yourself, "Who will be using the computer?" If parents are going to be using it for work related activities, buy the platform (MAC or Windows) used at work. All of the computers used in Finneytown Schools are Windows platform. You will need a Windows machine at home if your student is going to complete school computer projects at home or print projects started at home on the school printers.
As for which brand to purchase, do your research carefully. The best brand today, might not be the best tomorrow. Consider how you plan to use the computer, ease of repair, and ease of upgrading. Talk to the sales people in several different stores. Consult magazines that rate computers such as PC World and Consumer Reports. There are also web sites that post evaluations, such as http://www.cnet.com/. Above all, buy a well known brand from a reputable, established company.
What software should I buy?
To view the software used in school, consult the Computer Lab Curriculum link on the home page. The bulk of our work is done with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint). The Logical Journey of the Zoombinis is probably the favorite of all students.
How can I be sure my child is safe when using the Internet?The Internet is exciting, fun, and full of interesting information. Unfortunately, it also contains some objectionable material. Bad sites are not censored. You can buy software that will act as a firewall to block objectionable topics, but it may not block all of the questionable sites. Web site creators are very clever and develop ways of wording their sites so as to slip through some firewalls. At home, parents must be the Internet policemen. The following list of suggestions will help you in your new role.
- Place the computer in a room where the family spends a lot of time, so you can keep your eye on the Internet surfing.
- Turn Internet surfing into a family affair. Explore together. Bookmark sites that are okay for your child to visit without you.
- Teach your child what to do when he finds something objectionable: click the back arrow, walk away, and tell an adult.
- Report online harassment to your ISP (Internet Service Provider).
- Teach your child to NEVER type his name, address, and phone number when on the Internet. Use an alias instead. Do not allow your child to email personal photos to strangers.
For further information on the subject of Internet safety, consult the CyberAngels site: https://www.cyberangels.org/ which is billed as the largest Internet Safety Organization since 1995.
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