The Hack in the Class Foundation (HITC) wants to improve the knowledge of students in primary and secondary schools about technology, hacking and internet security. Its mission is to teach children how to use technology safely, and to equip them with knowledge and skills to move around the internet freely and safely.
The current generation of children grows up in a world where technology is everywhere. Children come into contact with digital resources at a young age. They make daily use of technology, such as social media and channels such as WhatsApp and SnapChat. They are expected to make decisions on what to share and what not. They must also defend themselves against the ways in which hackers operate. In addition, there are smart kids who go out to investigate themselves and hack into something by accident. Children are expected to know how to handle all these things. Hack in the Class has the mission to teach children how to use technology safely. We want to make our younger generation aware of the online dangers and equip them with knowledge and skills to use internet technology in a responsible way, such that they can move around the internet freely and safely.
Origination
Hack in the Class was started in 2016 by Barry ‘fish_’ van Kampen based on the idea that children should receive ‘digital social studies’. One of the first events was during Alert Online in 2016 in which Youtuber Enzo Knol was present. After giving various workshops at schools and events, Hack in the Class was formalized into a foundation in 2018.
Workshops
Hack in the Class gives workshops at schools. All workshops are taught by our volunteers, who believe it is important that the young generation is made digitally resilient. By creating a network of volunteers, Hack in the Class is not tied to a specific region and every school and student is given the opportunity to offer this knowledge to its students.