As schools use the Internet and technology on an everyday basis, it becomes critical that a clear set of guidelines is established to promote a positive and efficient use of these resources. Acceptable Use Policies (AUP) have been in existence in most schools for quite some time. Typically, the purpose of these documents is to clarify the institution's expectations of individuals using available resources. Most schools require that these policies are signed by administrators, teachers, students, and parents in an effort to promote awareness on all levels.
Although each AUP is unique, most include a similar set of content. Examples of this content include: a description of who is authorized to use the resources, a working definition of what type of use is acceptable, and a set of repercussions for the misuse of the resources.
Enforcement and Accountability are the key ingredients in maintaining a functional AUP. Without these 2 features, the AUP simply becomes another form filed away with little to no actual meaning. With the combined efforts of all parties involved, an effective AUP can help to protect the use of the Internet in the realm of education.
Back to Infosec Resources
- Critiquing Acceptable Use Policies
A critique of Acceptable Use Policies with many interesting links.
http://www.io.com/~kinnaman/aupessay.html - Added Jan 28, 2003 - Education World: Scavenger Hunt Info
This site includes basic information on incorporating scavenger hunts into the classroom. A great resource for those who are new to the technique.
http://www.education-world.com/a_curr/curr113.shtml - Added Jan 28, 2003 - IN Dept of Education Model AUP
The officially sanctioned state model for policies to be incorporated by the state.
http://doe.state.in.us/olr/aup/aupmod.html - Added Jan 28, 2003 - Landmarks for Schools
This site provides several online resources to aid in the process of requesting use of information/images found on the Web. Great for students and teachers alike.
http://www.landmark-project.com/index.php - Added Jan 10, 2003 - Sample AUP in Spanish:
Bilingual forms are necessary for use in some communities. The emphasis should be placed on informing as many parents as possible.
http://www.rice.edu/armadillo/aupspanish.html - Added Jan 28, 2003
