Purpose of the Acceptable Use Policy (AUP)

Technology is an essential part of learning in today’s world.

This Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) establishes guidelines on the appropriate use of EdTech resources to help you understand how to use these resources safely and responsibly, in line with efforts to develop your digital literacies and growth as digitally responsible citizens.

EdTech resources include the following, but are not limited to:

-            Learning devices (e.g. Personal Learning Devices (PLDs), school devices)

-            ICT system accounts (e.g. Singapore Student Learning Space (SLS), iCON); and school internet networks.

For more information, please refer to:

Student Kit on Cyber Wellness and Learning with a Personal Learning Device (Secondary) – https://go.gov.sg/cw-studentkit

General
1.     You should not attempt to access data, system and information that you are not authorised to.

2.     You are reminded that the use of learning devices and school’s EdTech resources should solely be for the purpose of learning.

Using your PLD

3.     You are responsible for your PLD. In the event of loss or theft of the device, you must make a police report and report the matter to the school.

4.     In order to have a positive learning experience, you should ensure that your PLD is fully charged before bringing it to school.

5.     You are reminded to keep your PLD updated by installing the relevant patches and updates when being prompted by the system.

6.    All PLDs are installed with a Device Management Application (DMA) to support a safe and conducive learning environment. You should not attempt to bypass the DMA.

7.     You are responsible for regularly backing up your learning materials in your PLD to prevent data loss. You may refer to the SLS Module assigned to your class titled “Digital Literacy and Technological Skills – File Management and Data Backup”.

Being a Responsible Digital Citizen

8.     You should interact with others in a respectful and responsible way. You should not post online remarks that are

•       racially and/or religiously insensitive,

•       vulgar and/or offensive, or

•       hurtful to others.

9.     You should not use any devices to

•       store, modify, create or share content (e.g. documents, presentations, pictures and videos) that is inappropriate (e.g. indecent, pornographic, defamatory, hurtful to self or others).

•   make threats, cause harassment or embarrassment, impersonate or intimidate others.

10.    You should not use MOE/school-deployed ICT system accounts for any commercial activities (e.g. buying and selling of goods and services).

Non-compliance with the above will lead to disciplinary action in accordance with the school’s discipline policy.

Respecting Copyright

11.     You are reminded to obtain explicit permission from the content owner(s) before downloading, copying or sharing any copyrighted materials (e.g. pictures, videos, music).

12.      You should not use, copy, edit or share digital files in an unauthorised or illegal manner.

Using Artificial Intelligence (AI)

13.     You must ensure that you meet the minimum age requirement specified in each AI tool's age restrictions before using it.

14.     If the use of AI is permitted, you should acknowledge the use of AI in weighted assessments and homework as required.

15.   You are to practice academic integrity and be responsible for your own learning when using AI. Understand that you are ultimately short-changing yourself if you pass off other’s work as your own.

Staying Safe and Secure online

16.     You should report any incidents (e.g. unusual device behaviour or inappropriate use of devices), to the school by informing your Form Teachers or directly to the school at nchs@moe.edu.sg.

17.     You are reminded to develop online safety habits. This includes not disclosing personal access credentials (e.g. MIMS password, PLD passcode, etc.), sensitive personal data (e.g. home address, passwords) online or on AI platforms, verifying credibility of online content before sharing, avoiding clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown files, and being cautious when interacting with others online (e.g. on social media) by not engaging with strangers.

18.     You should exercise caution regarding the limitations of AI tools, including potential inaccuracies / fabricated responses, inherent biases and outdated information.

Digital Wellbeing and Balance
19.     You are reminded to balance screentime with other activities including physical exercise and face-to-face social interactions.

20.     You should avoid excessive use of your devices outside learning hours.

21.     You should take regular breaks to rest your eyes and mind.

22.     You are reminded to practice good sleep hygiene by not using your devices one hour before bedtime.

Additional Information:

Ethical Use of AI

Understanding AI Tools:

• Recognise that AI tools are learning aids, not substitutes for critical thinking and original work

• Understand the capabilities and limitations of AI systems used in educational contexts

• Acknowledge when AI tools have been used to support learning or complete assignments

Responsible AI Application:

• Use AI tools to enhance understanding and learning rather than to bypass educational processes

• Verify information generated by AI tools through reliable sources and critical evaluation

• Maintain academic integrity by clearly distinguishing between AI-assisted work and independent effort

• Respect privacy by avoiding the input of personal or sensitive information into AI systems

Ethical Considerations:

• Consider the potential biases and limitations inherent in AI-generated content

• Evaluate the appropriateness of AI tool usage for specific learning objectives and assignments

• Understand that over-reliance on AI tools may hinder the development of essential thinking skills

• Engage in discussions about the ethical implications of AI usage in educational and societal contexts

Implementation and Support

Student Responsibilities:

• Participate actively in digital citizenship education programmes

• Seek clarification from teachers when uncertain about appropriate technology usage

• Report concerns or violations of responsible use policies to appropriate school personnel

• Continuously develop digital literacy skills through school-provided learning opportunities

Parent Partnership:

• Engage in ongoing conversations with your child about responsible technology use

• Attend workshops or information sessions about digital citizenship and AI literacy

• Support school policies by reinforcing appropriate technology practices at home

• Contact school ICT support via nchs@moe.edu.sg or counselling services if concerns arise regarding your child's technology usage

Conclusion

The responsible use of email accounts, PLDs, and AI tools is essential for creating a safe, productive, and ethical learning environment. Through collaborative effort between students, parents, and educators, we can ensure that technology serves as a powerful tool for learning whilst maintaining the highest standards of digital citizenship and academic integrity.

For questions or additional support regarding this AUP, please contact our NCHS ICT department via nchs@moe.edu.sg.

Version: Updated on 28 Oct 2025