Digital Rights and Responsibilities

An AUP is an Acceptable Use Policy that outlines the terms and conditions of internet use in school systems.  Technology can be a very useful resource for both students and teachers.  Teachers can interact with other teachers to develop lesson plans and search for interactive videos and websites.  Students also now have more resources at the tip of their finger than many school libraries, yet with these enormous benefits also comes significant danger.  There are now online predators, cyber bullying and harassment issues that schools have to deal with.  As a teacher, it is important the we uphold the policies and procedures in our school system.

How can a DLC ensure that citizens within the community have access to an environment where an AUP protects members as well as the community itself, where individuals uphold laws, and a cooperative/collective venture provides robust, safe, and ethical resources and opportunities for learning? The Digital Learning Community, or DLC, needs to make sure there is an AUP in place.  If not, they can create one to ensure that the AUP enforces what practices and behaviors are accepted.  They should also include what behaviors would cause a removal from the DLC.  By having clear guidelines and consequences, the DLC can quickly get rid of any unwanted behavior.

What is the best way to establish and maintain a flourishing DLC where citizens understand, observe, and are inclined to willingly support and ultimately benefit from Digital Rights and Responsibilities?  I think an essential step in creating a DLC where citizens work well together, is to have input from multiple parties when creating the AUP.  This can address issues, concerns, and personal preferences before things get out of hand.  Also, members are already beginning to work together from the beginning.

My plan to protect a DLC begins with having all students interacting to help determine proper netiquette.  I will have them list key terms or behaviors that they think are important for all students to uphold.  We can then discuss the "Terms of Agreement" and what the consequences would be if they do not meet the standards.  Most students are responsible and will contribute in creating the AUP because they feel like they have a say in their learning.  After we have established the guidelines, each student can sign the contract agreeing to the policy.  This makes it easy to discipline when students do not follow procedures because they helped create the plan.  When they know the rules and responsibilities of the DLC, the teacher has support and documentation when reprimanding the student.