# Japanese Schools Use Computer Chips to Keep Tabs on Children

- Author: Joichi Ito
- Date: 2004-09-30T16:34:29Z


Technology ReviewJapanese Schools Use Computer Chips to Keep Tabs on Children

TOKYO (AP) - Cutting class just got harder but schools are safer thanks to computer chips that help track students, Japanese officials say.

Some schools here this month began trial runs in which students carry chips that have tiny antennae and can be traced by radio, with some of the kids attaching the tags to their backpacks.

The chips send signals to receivers at school gates. A computer in the system shows when a student enters or leaves.

School officials say rising concerns about student safety prompted the idea. But student safety is still MUCH better than the rest of the world. Elementary school first graders still take public transportation to school by themselves. I think tagging is a bit over the top."And the kids love it - they think it's cool," he added.Yeah. Right...

And when are they going to start tagging everyone else...

via Smart Mobs





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#### Categories

Japanese Policy, Wireless and Mobile