Please click on the image above to access the video
This video defines and describes an AUP
An AUP or Acceptable Use Policy is a vital protocol for all educational institutions to have in place. An AUP governs the use of the internet both at home and school. It outlines a wide range of issues from privileges and responsibilities, to consequences for misuse. AUPs should be kept up to date with new technology, programs and issues arising through time. For example: The increase in practices such as BYOD and flipped classrooms as well as the move to more remote learning due to global shutdowns of schools, as seen in 2020 due to the Covid19 pandemic, have forced many school systems to revamp their policies and procedures.
When creating or revamping an Acceptable Use Policy, each educational institution should involve a collection of stakeholders. From tech savvy teachers and secondary students, to parents, administrators and those skilled in creating legal or business related documents; variety and inclusion ensure a balance and buy-in. With a committee of various people from different backgrounds and professions, one may see some challenges in creating a unified document that meets the needs of both employees of a school district as well as students. It may also be argued that creative differences may arise as to the tone of a policy. Will the policy be legalistic and formal, or protective yet empowering? Where do these committees begin? According to an article in Education World, The National Education Association suggests that an effective AUP contain the following six key elements
With this framework in place, as well as an existing district vision and mission statement, the AUP should come together nicely.
Depending on the size of a system and demographics of a district’s stakeholders, an AUP may need to include various forms and, or formats to meet different needs. If buy-in and digital citizenship education are truly a goal, primary and elementary school AUPs may need to include student friendly language and fewer situational policies on the student agreement documents, whereas a secondary school may include more adult related terminology and policies. Districts may also need to consider language and culture related barriers and be prepared to provide translated and culturally appropriate copies of documents. Last, a committee needs to decide how much detail needs to be given to address all of the issues that may arise in the creation of the policy and documentation.Questions such as, “How explicit will sections on cyber-bullying, sexting, and other areas of inappropriate digital conduct be?” as well as, “Will there be gray areas within descriptions of the violations, or will there be a strict zero tolerance policy posted?" need to be handled carefully to maintain cohesion with the vision and mission of the system.
Various Links for Videos Explaining Acceptable Use to Students
Please click on each image below to access the videos
Resources
SK