iCue.com
NBC's safe and informative political haven.
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- URL: http://www.icue.com
- Entertainment Value: Medium.
Parents need to know
Families can talk about everything related to the '08 presidential election using this information-packed site as a discussion starter, reference, and current events log. Discuss with your teen some of the site's rules for civil discourse, an important reminder on- and offline during an election year. View the site through the lens of media criticism and discuss the downsides of getting political news from only one media outlet. Is NBC presenting all candidates in an unbiased light? Do they seem to favor one candidate more than others? How can your teen make sure they're getting balanced news coverage?
Message
Social Behavior:
The site's current focus is helping teens educate themselves and discuss the '08 presidential election in interactive, fun ways. Thus far, the message boards contain no flaming and include some meaty topics.
Consumerism:
NBC logos are the only ads here. If users go to the Student Center, however, the MSNBC site they're linked to contains lots of ads.
Drugs/Alcohol/Tobacco:
See above warning about link to MSNBC celeb gossip site. Some Hollywood news talks about drinking and drugs.
Educational Value:
Initially created as a student aid for AP coursework, this site contains a vast amount of educational information for teens and adults on all things U.S. politics.
Violence
Only in a newsy way.
Sex
None observed on the iCue site; however, if teens go to the Student Center, they're sometimes routed to the MSNBC.MSN.com site where celebrity gossip includes some racy Hollywood-style news. For example, there's currently a slide show of photos of a bra-only wearing Britney Spears.
Language
Although not watched 24/7, moderators do keep tabs on content posted on the message boards, which thus far seems to be respectful, diverse, and on point. There's a report abuse button on the bottom of each post, and moderators even delete messages posted in all caps, to discourage escalating heated debates.
Common Sense says
What's the story?
Reviewed by Dana Villamagna
Is it any good?
Nuts and bolts
- Playability: Easy to medium
- Reading Required: Light
- Graphics: Video, video flash cards, games
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