Suggested Revisions
- Revise the Acceptable Use Policy to become a "Responsible Use Strategy." The reason for this is that AUPs are typically lists of what NOT to do. It's more important to encourage responsible, educated use of communication/collaboration technologies. It's also important to distinguish between policy and strategy for responsible use. When anyone can bypass the roadblocks in place on the network--and the District's network altogether--it's important to encourage a strategy focused on responsible use, rather than a policy that seeks to punish anyone who steps out of line. An RUS suggests teachable moments rather than punishable ones.
- Internet access is a requirement for learning in a globally inter-connected world, no longer a privilege. Remove this sentence:
- Access to the Districts’ technology resources is a privilege, not a right.
- Since use of the network is a necessity for learning and teaching, students/parents and staff will automatically be subject to the Responsible Use Agreement by September 1st of every school year, even if they do not sign and return it to their teacher/administrator.
- The Safety section could be revised to reflect the importance of being responsible digital citizens rather than simply being a short, inadequate list of Dos and Don'ts.
- Social Media (a.k.a. Electronic Media) is not fully addressed.
- Bring Your Own Device/Technology (BYOD/T) is not addressed.
Revised Version of ECISD Document
The following is a revised version of the ECISD AUP, reflecting the language from various resources and updated to reflect new, emerging communication technologies.
Resources
Sample AUP by Miguel Guhlin
From Bastrop ISD
From Deer Park ISD - http://www.dpisd.org/page/436
From Navasota ISD