With the technology integration, it comes out as a challenge for schools to make sure that appropriate use is being done by those who get their hand on the e-devices.
Policies are mandatory because with web reach of the user is endless. In order to keep your students safe, Students should have this thing in mind that agreeing to the AUP and working according to it is their ticket to technology usage in the school. Apart from the access to internet, it is important that devices are operated carefully and not be damaged by any student so having AUP is of the utmost importance and maybe the first thing you will have to look upon when you talk about integrating technology in the schools.
Check it out!
— Users will not use any devices without teacher’s permission.
— The purpose of the use must be known to the teacher in charge.
— Users will exercise caution when handling technology devices.
— Users will follow guidelines for proper usage of equipment.
— Users will not use another person’s computer resources without authorization or unless it is being told by the authority itself.
— Users will not knowingly destroy any Electronic Communication Device technology equipment.
— Users will not post personal information about themselves or others.
–.Users will never arrange for meetings with anyone they have met online without the knowledge of the school and permission of a parent/guardian.
–Users will promptly disclose to their teacher or administrator any message they receive that is inappropriate or makes them feel uncomfortable.
— If an individual suspects a possible security breech, the user will immediately contact their teacher.
— Users will not plagiarize; therefore, they should cite all quotes, references, and sources. Acknowledging the source of a copyrighted material does not substitute for obtaining reproduction rights.
— Be polite! Do not get abusive in your messages to others. There must be no indulgence in cyber-bullying.
— Exercise caution when using sarcasm and humor. Without face-to-face communications, a joke or statement may be misunderstood.
— Be aware of the intent and function of an individual or group before sending a message.
— Users will not use district technology to access material that is profane or obscene, advocates illegal or violent activities, or advocates discrimination towards other individuals or groups. If a user inadvertently accesses inappropriate material, he/she should immediately notify his/her teacher or administrator, thereby avoiding an allegation of intentional violation of the Technology & Electronic Communication Device Acceptable Use Policy.
— Users will use technology specifically for educational or career development activities.
— Users will not use any district technology to play games that have been downloaded onto a technology device, or that are played on the Internet. Assigned, teacher approved interactive tools, which are directly related to the curriculum, are permitted.
— Users will not use the Internet or other technology media to access chat rooms or any type of instant messaging.
One thing that may come as the biggest challenge is the implementation of the policies that you make. Just having the policies may give you the feeling that you’re keeping your students safe but unless the policies are implemented properly you students are still vulnerable to the ill use of technology. So make sure the policies that you work according to are implemented thoroughly.
You may like to refer the District Technology Policy of Maine Township High School and Technology Use Policy of Lemont High School to get a feel of the AUPs that other institutions are working upon.
