Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that this site is the online partner of Channel One News, a news service broadcast in more than 11,000 middle and high schools. Some groups have voiced strong objections to the news service because its 10-minute broadcast contains two minutes of commercials. The Web site itself has a fair amount of advertising, including banner ads and some sponsored content. Otherwise, the site is safe and appropriate for teens. There's one section that allows users to submit videos, but it requires permission from a parent. Parents will appreciate the content on Internet safety, which covers social networking, video sharing, email hoaxes, and cyberbullying.
Families can talk about the Channel One advertising controversy. Is advertising on the site less objectionable than in the classroom, since web users aren't a "captive audience"? Why is the U.S. Army such a prominent advertiser on the site? Our Selling to Kids can help kick off a conversation about the relationship between ads and content.
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Susan Yudt
CHANNELONE.COM is a "news and public affairs content provider," though some of the featured content ("Kabbalah Love Calculator" and "Name That Star") seems straight out of a mainstream teen mag. Get past that fluffy fare and teens will find compelling current events coverage. OneVote: 2008 takes an interactive (and balanced) approach to the upcoming election, providing a snapshot of each Democratic and Republican candidate, a guide to major political parties, a quiz illustrating the significance of voting, and an action guide for getting involved. Not a political junkie? The site covers a wide range of other issues, like the environment, health, faith, and finance. Tackling topics with quizzes, commentary, and games (like the very handy Credit Card Simulator) creates a rich user experience. The new Livewire section has some cool videos, but each one starts with the same contest announcement which is tedious to watch over and over again.
Older teens into politics and activism might want to check out YouthNoise.com. Younger teens and tweens might enjoy Nick News with Linda Ellerbee.
Reviewed: 12/23/2007
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ViolenceCovers tough subjects like genocide and war. |
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Social BehaviorEncourages volunteering and civic involvement; includes videos of kids/teens who are making a difference. |
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CommercialismLarge banner ads and some sponsored content. |
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Educational ValueStudent Life section has some fluffy stuff, but teens will learn a lot from the news section. |
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