AT&T, University of Minnesota launch children's Web site - tech briefs - GoCyberCamp - Brief Article

Black Issues in Higher Education, March 13, 2003 by Ronald Roach

MINNEAPOLIS

Parents who want their children to use the Internet safely--and to learn while having fun--have a new online resource that lets children "camp out" all year long. AT&T and the Center for 4-H Youth Development, part of the University of Minnesota Extension Service, has introduced goCyberCamp as an interactive Web site for children ages 8 to 12.

GoCyberCamp is an online learning environment that provides children with a window to the outdoors and camp culture in educational but gamelike settings. It also allows them to interact with other "campers" who are registered to use the site. The program initially was designed to help children who have never been to camp become familiar with nature and camp routines--such as campfire safety and traditional camp songs--through activities that blend learning, fun and technology.

The AT&T Family Care Development Fund--a joint initiative of AT&T and its two unions, the Communications Workers of America and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers--is funding the Web site's development and start-up with a $1.3 million grant.

Campers and care providers may sign up to join goCyberCamp at no charge at . The Camper Enrollment form and Caregiver application form are available online. Campers must obtain a parent or legal guardian's permission to enroll, and care providers also must obtain the parent or guardian's permission for each child to participate.