social+network+sites+for+kidz


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 * What is the site's mission?**

The "Whatswhat.me" site was developed and dedicated dedicated to "preparing" children on how to make intelligent and appropriate choices when going online while providing an intertesting environment where children are able to socialize and play games while being taught positive online behavior and related life skills. This site has been developed to provide a vehicle for meaningful self-expression for children.
 * Who are the community's members?**

Children of all ages segregated by grade level wherein there is no inter-grade interaction allowed without prior parental approval. All groups are created by the children, and must be approved by a moderator prior to going live.
 * What are the guidelines for membership?**

No guidelines are given, however as stated above all groups are monitored and must be approved. Ages 7 through 13 years are allowed. A use of a webcam is necessary/required.


 * What are the guidelines for adult involvement? (teachers, parents)**

No adults are allowed to log on to the site. All interaction/socialization is monitored by a trained moderator who communicate with parents when necessary.


 * What features are included in this site?**

Participants can: Earn "MePoints" and win prizes Watch and/or post videos Play games Take polls Create/Join age-appropriate social groups Message friends (“Friending” only occurs within one grade level unless approved by a parent). Share photos (moderated) A “Show It” button gives child discretion as to what other users can post on their wall “Report It” Button gives child a means to report bullying behavior Authentic ID: MeKey matches child’s unique facial features at every login. with web cam & biometric facial recognition technology Photos are encrypted and stored on state-of-the-art, secure servers Professional Human Moderators: Ensures that the site is “Kids Only”

**Is there a clear rationale for the features that have been included**? Yes. The website creators give several cogent reasons for the development and use of the site. Safety is paramount and the reasons for the features included are many and very "rational". **In your opinion, can this site be used for an educational purpose? Can it be related to curriculum? Why or why not**? Without a more in-depth tour than what is provided it is not possible to adequately ascertain the educational value of this site. The site tour does mention “Teachable Moments” but the value could not be gauged. The educational value seems to be limited to "self expression" which may address ELA education but is maily geared to preparing children for future "intelligent" use of the internet. Given that the use of the net for educational purposes is a given teaching it's use will help children. Those better prepared to utilize the internet will be better prepared for school - fortunately or unfortunately.

**If it can't be directly tied to curriculum, would you recommend it to parents? Would you let your own children use the site? Why or why not**? Yes. I would recommend it as a parent and i would allow my child to use this site if I could ascertain if it was being used by classmates. Why ? Due to the moderation, "anti-bullying" features, and restriction by class. The site does look intertesting and seems to provide a good forum to provide children with an arena for creative self expression while learning proper internet social-networking proceedures.