The Deleting Online Predators Act, which regulates US pupils use of the internet, has been passed by Congress. Techdirt reported the news this morning, commenting that education rather than regulation would be a better way of protecting children who use the internet.

The new legislation, soon to be approved by the Senate, will ban pupils’ use of sites such as Amazon and Myspace, because US lawmakers view the sites as potentially dangerous for young people. Techdirt argue that the new law is politically motivated, with representatives keen to play the “protecting the children” card ahead of important mid-term elections. Techdirt are also fustrated at the ignorance demonstrated by US politicians toward the internet, pointing out that users can only access Facebook if they belong to a listed school or college.

Techdirt also argue that the government should attempt to educate communities about the internet, rather than applying clumsy laws that may drive young people to genuinely dangerous sites. The British Government demonstrated this approach last year, when they launched Get Safe Online. The initiative, which was sponsored by key stakeholders such as Microsoft, aimed to help children and parents use the internet safely. The New Statesman recently reported on The Department for Education and Skills attempt to tackle online bullying, which did not ban specific websites.

Techdirt’s argument is understandable; it does appear that US politicians do need to improve their knowledge of the web. Britain’s approach to the problem appears to be more informed and progressive.