Since this “digital haystack” of unregulated data is an educational tool that is here to stay, what are the legal and ethical ramifications for students, teachers and parents? An acceptable use policy, such as the one in my first artifact, has to be in place to thoroughly articulate answers to this question for the public. My sample policy is closely aligned with Regulation IGT-RA (User Responsibilities for Computer Systems and Network Security). The purpose of this document (Artifact 2) is “to ensure compliance with relevant state, local, and federal law and to delineate appropriate uses for all users of Montgomery County Public Schools computer systems.” By reviewing and signing a school’s acceptable use policy, parents and students are made aware of the expectations for using computers appropriately as well as the consequences for unacceptable use. Once the policy is communicated, I as the library media specialist have certain responsibilities. According to the policy, if a student is “using language, pictures, or materials that are obscene, vulgar, abusive, or harmful to others,” I must enforce consequences that can include calling parents, suspending computer privileges, recommending school suspension, or pressing criminal charges. These consequences can also apply to other illegal or unethical behaviors cited in my policy such as “copying copyrighted materials” or “using school networks or computer systems for personal gain or illegal activities.” Failure to carry out my responsibilities could result in a letter of reprimand or even loss of my job. Having an acceptable use policy in place keeps all stakeholders accountable as they navigate the “digital haystack of data” to locate appropriate “needles” for teaching and learning.
OBJECTIVE: Efficient and Ethical Information-Seeking Behavior
