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Computer Use Policy
Introduction
Aitchison College provides computers in all schools for use in studies, as an extension to the College library, and as a support to the curriculum. Users are responsible for the appropriate use of computers including use of the Internet. Access is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in that privilege being withdrawn. ‘Appropriate’ be may be defined but not limited to:
Equipment
- Do not install, attempt to install or store programs of any type on the computers without permission.
- Do not damage, disable, or otherwise harm the operation of computers, or intentionally waste resources.
- Do not use the computers for commercial purposes, e.g. buying or selling goods.
- Do not open files brought in on removable media (such as floppy disks, CDs, USB drives etc.) until they have been checked with antivirus software, and been found to be free of viruses.
- Do not connect mobile equipment to the network (e.g. laptops, tablet PCs, PDAs etc.) until they have been checked with antivirus software, and been found to be free of viruses.
- Do not eat or drink near computer equipment.
Security and privacy
- Do not disclose your password to others, or use passwords intended for the use of others.
- Never tell anyone you meet on the Internet your home address, your telephone number, any details about Aitchison College, or send them your picture.
- Do not use the computers in a way that; harasses, harms, offends or insults others.
- Respect, and do not attempt to bypass, security in place on the computers, or attempt to alter the settings.
- Computer storage areas and floppy disks will be treated like school desks. Staff may review files and communications to ensure that users are using the system responsibly.
Internet
- The Internet should only be used for study or for school authorized/supervised activities.
- Do not use the Internet to obtain, download, send, print, display or otherwise transmit or gain access to materials which are unlawful, obscene or abusive.
- Respect the work and ownership rights of people outside the school, as well as other pupils or staff. This includes abiding by copyright laws.
- ‘Chat’ activities over the Internet are forbidden. This takes up valuable resources which could be used by others to benefit their studies.
Online and other activities which are not permitted include:
- Searching, viewing or retrieving materials that are not related to the aims of the curriculum.
- Copying, saving or redistributing copyright-protected material, without approval.
- Subscribing to any services or ordering goods or services, unless specifically approved by the College.
- Playing computer games or using other interactive ‘chat’ or ‘social’ sites unless specifically approved by the College.
- Using the network in such a way that use of the network by other users is disrupted (for example: downloading large files during peak usage times; sending mass email messages).
- Publishing, sharing or distributing any personal information about a user (such as: home address; email address; phone number; etc.).
- Downloading software.
- Taking and storing images of people that are inappropriate or taken without that person’s permission.
- Any activity that violates a school rule.
Email
- Be polite and appreciate that other users might have different views from your own. Offensive language is prohibited.
- Never open attachments to emails unless they come from someone you already know and trust. They could contain viruses or other programs which could destroy information and software on the computers.
- The sending or receiving of emails containing material likely to be unsuitable for children or schools is strictly forbidden. This applies to any material of a violent, dangerous, racist, or inappropriate content. Always report such messages to a member of staff.
Software Piracy
The college forbids the unauthorized duplication or use of copyrighted software. It is illegal to copy commercial software for your own use or by others. Likewise, knowingly accepting or using copies of "pirated" software violates the policy of Aitchison College.
Enforcement
If a user violates these provisions, access to the Internet will be denied and disciplinary action will be taken. For serious violations, suspension or expulsion may be imposed.
Acceptable use of Internet and email facilities for children and staff rationale
Aitchison College has the opportunity to transform and enhance education and help children to fulfil their potential and raise standards with ICT. However, we also have a duty of care and must ensure that we are able to safeguard children and staff, so it is also important that children learn how to be safe when they are using new technologies. Whilst blocking and banning is part of our policy, we believe a more sustainable approach is required. We will equip the children with the skills and knowledge they need to use the Internet safely and responsibly, managing the risks wherever and whenever they go online; to promote safe and responsible behaviours in using technology both at school and in the home and beyond.