Facebook can help literacy?

"The phenomenal speed at which the internet is developing and the rapid take up of new web services by young people can be challenging. However, it's vital that all of us really take the time to understand the way students are using the latest technology, the various features of these new services and appreciate how these new tools can aid good social interaction and learning. Using sites, like Facebook and Bebo, to communicate, collaborate and create means learners use and can develop a wide range of literacy skills", according to a report by Childnet - an organisation promoting internet safety.

Facebook used in the classroom? I wouldn't hold my breath. 

Also, does anyone actually use Bebo?

Help Fouad

Fouad, who was jailed awaiting trail for creating a fake facebook profile of a Moroccan prince, has been sentenced to three years in jail. His family sent a letter to the prince requesting clemency:

Fouad Mourtada, like thousands of people who create fake profiles of well-known personalities or celebrities on Facebook, has in no way acted in a willingness to cause nuisance to Your Highness, for whom he has always shown the greatest of respect

Help Fouad was launched, a website to help free Fouad. Moroccan bloggers also stopped blogging for 24 hours. His family also say that he was beaten unconscious at the time of his arrest.

This is just insane.

Jailed for a fake Facebook profile

Fouad Mourtada was arrested in Casablanca for "villainous practices", for creating a facebook profile for Prince Moulay Rachid, the younger brother of the Moroccan King. Needless to say, this is the first such case anywhere. It must be devastating for something as simple and innocent as creating a fake Facebook profile. His family, interviewed on BBC Arabic, say that Fouad created the profile to impress the opposite sex, and has not sent or received any messages on the account.

Fouad is currently awaiting trial, and he could be facing anywhere between eight months or five years in jail: for a fake facebook profile!

The Moroccan government exercises heavy censorship on the media, specially when it comes to news about the royal family, but they've generally adopted a handsoff approach to bloggers and social networks; this latest incident signals a change.