It all depends on the context. We have found videoconferencing to be an amazing tool in bringing face-to-face intimacy online with eye contact, gesture, voice. Our use of video conferences and video messaging give the apprentices and mentors an opportunity to really get to know each other, while mastering empowering new technologies. We can collaborate based on common interest across geographical boundaries. This is one of the greatest opportunities.

We have designed the apprenticeship path to take advantage of basic computer equipment and readily available and relatively affordable software. Anyone with a PC or Mac running Virtual PC can participate. A 56 K modem, cable modem or ADSL are recommended though not necessary. See our tech note below for more details.

The web has everything the outer world has -- young people can and must learn to navigate cyberspace safely as they navigate their neighborhoods and cities. We encourage an open dialogue within the family about the harsh realities of the web.

We recognize that the web in all its diversity has dark corners. We support our son/daughter in freedom of access without censorship and trust in their ability to make good decisions. We will create an open and ongoing dialogue in our family about the many serious issues the web presents. We take full responsibility for any strange and undesirable content encountered. We acknowledge the risks of the adventure and accept the challenge of helping our daughter/son learn to navigate the web safely.

Apprenticeships are a minimum of 5 months. We encourage participants to do at least two 5 month phases to reach a depth of experience. Apprentices who really appreciate the work of Haven may become interns after the completion of 3 phases.

This is an advanced apprenticeship. A basic level of ease with word processing, graphics programs like Photoshop, HTML editors like BBEdit, Front Page, Page Mill, Home Site, or Dream Weaver etc., and FTP software is assumed. Also necessary for this adventure is an autodidactic spirit to guide you in teaching yourself new technologies (NetMeeting videoconferencing software, chat software etc.). High jumping is useful though not necessary for leaping over the continual technological hurdles you can expect to encounter along the way.

Pentium 100 with 24 MB RAM-- Pentium 166 with 32 MB RAM preferred

Mac--We have been told Macintosh can run the NetMeeting videoconferencing software and audio/chat software when it is running Virtual PC. We can offer no guarantees for Mac users. If you'd like to give it a try, we'll do a test videoconference with you. (Video conferencing is not necessary to participate creatively in the apprenticeship path.) We are currently exploring software that will more easily allow PCs and Macs to videoconference together.

sound card and microphone

b&w or color videocamera for videoconferencing (we recommend one of the Quickcam series--check out Logitech)

modem--33.6 modem (56k, cable modem or ADSL recommended)