bp8_2009118_Web2.0tools_Ekoloko

What if there was a site where kids could go to learn about ecology and the environment on their own terms while hanging out with friends in a risk free virtual environment? Well, that place exists... it's called EKOLOKO! Go to this URL http://play.ekoloko.com/ekoloko/index.html to find immediately engaging music, characters, and information all geared toward social responsibility concerning Earth and people.

The first think you’ll need to do when you enter the site, is click the “English” button in the lower right hand corner. This will allow you to navigate the index screen. Fun music will be playing, but if you prefer, you can use the mute option. Selecting the “About” option will take you to a brief overview of the site including the YouTube video you see here. “News will give you real-life updated news concerning the Ekoloko community and organizations such as the Teva Organization and Disney Magazine. Through this site, families have a way of becoming part of an organization that encourages “green” responsibility and service/outreach support for kid-friendly causes around the world. Click the “Parents” tab to find helpful information such as the definition of a virtual world, methods of communication used on the site, info on what types of things kids will do and participate in, Internet safety, and more! As a safety measure, Ekoloko works to meet strict internet safety standards to keep kids safe by including features such as “live moderators” available for kids to call upon in the event that an inappropriate behavior should arise.

You’re almost ready! Select “Play”, “New User” and you’re teleported to a room where you can choose and personalize your avatar (on a simple and age-appropriate basis). Once your avatar is ready, you’re led through a sign-up process that includes basic information like first name, password, email address, and birth date. You cannot sign up on the site without a parent’s email address. Once your information has been submitted, an email is sent to your parent’s email address where the process can be confirmed and completed. Three cheers for Ekoloko! You are to be commended on your efforts toward ecological responsibility and your devotion to safety for kids on your Internet site! Check it out, everyone!