The Internet is a powerful tool which can enrich learning. It opens a world's wealth of information and communication possibilities. Schools in many countries are using the Internet to represent not just themselves, but their school, community and country. There are several considerations which students and parents must be aware of as students gain access to the many facets of the Internet.
1. APPROPRIATE USE:
If students do not make appropriate use of the Internet and the tools involved in its use, they will lose the privilege of its use. Below is a list of unacceptable use:
a) Accessing or sending of any information which violates Canadian laws.
b) Accessing or sending information which is obscene, hateful, sexually explicit, abusive, threatening or contrary to school standards.
c) The sending of any information of a commercial nature, or advertisements, or political lobbing.
d) The abuse or damage of any hardware, files or other information.
e) Actions which disrupt or interfere with the use of the Internet by others.
f) The use of others' accounts, or the access of private or restricted files or information.
g) Any attempt to use the Internet as a system administrator.
h) Using inappropriate or insulting language.
i) Any actions which harass others, including the sending of unwanted mail.
j) Showing disrespect for the privacy and rights of others.
k) The breaking of any rules, or netiquette set up and explained by the school's Internet manager.
l) Entering services or information sites not allowed by the local Internet manager.
2. SAFETY ...
Many types of people us the Internet. Some are criminals. Some are dangerous. Any information encountered on the Internet must be viewed with caution. Students should be aware of the dangers, question any form of information and report anything at all suspicious to the local Internet manager.
a) One must be aware that any information sent on the Internet may be viewed by others. Privacy is not assured.
b) Do not give any information which reveals your identity or place of residence, or that of your friends.
c) Do not agree to telephone, or meet in person, anyone you discover on the Internet. Advise your local Internet manager and parents if someone on-line wishes to meet you.
d) Do not reveal your age, sex, personal data or feelings to anyone, or any file on the Internet.
e) Do not reveal any credit card, bank account numbers or any other personal data.
3. OWNERSHIP:
Students should value the privilege of Internet use, value the useful information and services and take responsibility for their actions.
a) If anyone suspects others are using their accounts, or the school's Internet system or files without permission, those suspected should be reported to the local Internet manager.
b) Students should never reveal their password(s) or file names.
c) Students should always site the sources of any information they use or copy. Copyright provisions must always be followed.
d) Students should report to the local Internet manager any information which has made them uncomfortable, or threatened them or someone else.
e) The school retains the right to check student files and actions on the Internet, and to direct students to make corrective actions.
f) The school will not be responsible for the quality, accuracy or nature of information students may encounter on the Internet.
g) The school and/or teacher assumes no responsibility for any inappropriate, offensive or dangerous information which students may encounter in using the Internet.