Measures to Ensure Use of iPads for Educational Purposes Do Not Expose Students to Online Harms

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament

Mr Christopher de Souza, Holland-Bukit Timah GRC

Question

To ask the Minister for Education how schools will ensure that the use of iPads for educational purposes will not create easy access and exposure to online sexual content and predators.

Response

1. All Personal Learning Devices are pre-installed with a Device Management Application (DMA). The DMA blocks students' access to undesirable Internet content such as pornography, gambling, and violence. Schools also have website filtering systems to restrict access via school network to inappropriate websites and content to ensure a safe online environment for students.
2. Through Cyber Wellness lessons, schools equip students with the values and skills to use technology safely, such as to recognise risks in the digital space and to be discerning of negative influences and inappropriate websites.
3. Parents play a key role in guiding and monitoring their child’s leisure online activities. They can tap on resources, expert insights and strategies shared by MOE and schools.