Acceptable Use Policies

                Being a digital citizen, is the ability to appropriately use technology even with the issues that arise. It is important for teachers to educate students on being a digital citizen to minimize the risks using innovative technologies. Schools minimize this risk for students by creating an Acceptable Use Policy (AUP). This binds students and teachers to be responsible when using devices. Another part of the AUP for BCPS is to report when issues arise such as cyber-bullying, harassment, copyright, and violations of the AUP. Parents have the option to opt out of certain privacy options and the use of the device at home in secondary schools. We are fortunate to have many filters on our devices to block content however students find their way around the firewalls to get the content they want. It is important to have clear consequences to violations of the AUP so students are not willing to risk violations. 

                 When creating an AUP, school systems should include safety and privacy rules when using the devices. The AUP should be clearly outlined and defined so everyone signing the agreement fully understands the contract. There should be a focus on online safety and reporting violations of the AUP minimize risks to students. This holds all users accountable when using the devices. An issue that may arise with AUPs is the wording on the contract. Many students and teachers may not understand what their responsibilities are if it is not written in simple language. The Boston Public Schools decided to re-write their AUP to make it more student friendly. 

 BCPS AUP

Comments

  1. Emily KarlMarch 24, 2019 at 1:59 PM

    I think that BCPS should have lessons in the beginning of the year that describes each rule on the Acceptable Use Policy. The child will create something (cartoon, magazine, PowerPoint, etc.) to describe one of the rules. For homework, they have to discuss the rules with their families. Maybe create a skit that follows a rule. Then before the students get their device they will sign the contract. I feel that when we send the contract home to be signed, parents are just signing it and returning the form to school.

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