Evaluation of Policies

The computer use and copyright policies of educational institutions are functionally the same, but in appearance may differ greatly. Computer use policies are enforced as a plan of action intended to influence decisions and actions of users of technology within a place of employment (Vaughn, 2004). Copyright policies are in place to protect the institution from liability in the event a user violates the law (Dames, 2005). The standards appear to be universal guided by federal, state, and local laws although the wording may vary from institution to institution. The form which these documents take appear to range in their presentation from a basic introduction with an accompanying list of regulations to documents that give great detail on the policies that have been adopted. When compared, the content reflects the standards set forth by laws concerning the environment of students and faculty, and maintaining a non-hostile, easily accessible network to enhance the learning experience. Upon evaluating the computer use policies currently in place at different institutions, similarities were discovered. It was noted that the policies state in general that the use of technology must be in support of education and research consistent with the objectives of the school. Another similarity revealed that the policies also generalize when accessing the computer, network, or Internet that all existing local, state, and federal laws would be observed and enforced. Additionally, the policies also include in situations where a user violates the terms of the acceptable use agreement termination of all computer privileges may be enforced. Privileges will also be terminated in cases of vandalism, for example, attempts to harm or destroy data, or uploading viruses. One significant difference discovered in the policies involves students with disabilities. The computer use policy for Cathedral High School specifically mentions that offensive content may not be accessed, displayed, stored, edited, or recorded using the schools network, printing, or computer resources. The policy details further that offensive content includes, among many other things, any content that can reasonably offend someone on the basis of mental or physical disability. The computer use policy for the University of Washington mentions the requirement by

federal and state law to make accommodations for students with physical or learning disabilities, but does not go into detail as to what those accommodations are. In the evaluated policies there was no other instance pertaining to a diverse or disabled population. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act, also known as ADA, handicapped individuals should have equal access to electronic equipment and accommodations must be made to meet an individuals specific needs. Despite the fact that the policies do not specifically explain accommodations for disabled students, the policies do mention that all local, state, and federal laws are observed and enforced by the academic institution. Upon evaluating copyright policies currently in place at different institutions, similarities were discovered. Generally speaking, copyright policies within an educational institution must adhere to the guidelines of the Copyright Act of 1976. Regardless of the nature of a disability or the lack thereof, any user or potential user must comply with copyright law. As such, the policies mentioned that all copyright laws will be fully enforced allowing exemptions in accordance with fair use guidelines. The policies also identified what would happen as a result of copyright violations. While one policy passes all liability onto the user, another policy states that the person in violation may be required to reimburse the district for expenses as a result of copyright violations. Although the presentation of the policies will vary from institution to institution, the overall intent remains the same. Computer use policies guide users and copyright policies provide liability protection for the provider of the network. In essence, both policies are in place to assist both parties, school and user, and it is essential for the institution to guard against any violation which puts it at risk, while it is incumbent upon the user to follow guidelines for usage and copyright violations in order to protect themselves.

Reference Page

Bellingham School District 501. Copyright Compliance. http://fairhaven.bellinghamschools.org/sites/default/files/district/documents/P2025.pdf

Cathedral High School. Cathedral High School Acceptable Computer Use Policy. http://www.cathedral-irish.org/uploaded/Files/Technology/CHS_AUP.pdf

Dames, K. (2005). Copyright Clearances Limitations and Risk Analysis for Information Professionals. Online (Weston, Conn), 29(1), 24-27.

Greenville County Schools. Copyright Guidelines. http://www.greenville.k12.sc.us/gcsd/depts/ets/policy/copyrgt.asp

Laurens County School District 56. Acceptable Use Agreement. http://www.laurens56.k12.sc.us/site/Default.aspx?PageID=190

University of Washington. School of Law. Laptop Computer in Classroom Policy. http://www.law.washington.edu/students/academics/LaptopPolicy.aspx

Vaughan, J. (2004). Policies Governing Use of Computing Technology in Academic Libraries. Information Technology & Libraries, 23(4), 153-167.