I’d like to paraphrase how federal laws (CIPA and COPPA) influence school technology policies (Anywhere USA School District). Perhaps I am over simplifying, but would you sign the following user agreement, acceptance and consent form?
I understand and agree to abide by the following “limited self-discovery” computer use policies. I also understand that all of my files, research, and digital conversations are not private and will be monitored. Any violation of the computer use policies below, whether intentional or unintentional, mat result in denial of access to technology, probation, detention, suspension, expulsion, or civil and criminal prosecution. Anywhere USA School District will fully cooperate with local, state or federal officials related violations of any of the illegal computer use activities listed below.
- I will not share personal information about myself or others.
- I will not engage in inappropriate conversations.
- I will not contact or be contacted by another person who might be considered inappropriate.
- I will not view or allow others to view content that is copyrighted or protected by trade secret.
- I will not view or allow others to view content that is annoying, threatening, harassing or causes distress to another person.
- I will not view or allow others to view content that is obscene or pornographic.
- I will not view or allow others to view content that advocates violence.
- I will not view or allow others to view language that might be considered offensive, defamatory, or abusive.
- I will not download any files, or install any programs, or change any configurations or settings to address any of my individual preferences.
- I will immediately report any computer use policy violation by others to Anywhere USA School District authorities.
The US government is totally out of control. It seems as if their only function these days is getting in people’s way. If I were a judge presiding over a challenge to these kinds of restrictive technology policies I would rule for the people. I would rule against any totalitarian regime that limits free speech in any form or format.
Doesn't it seem that the subplot of all of these 'we must protect the children' discussions is ultimately who is going to 'lawyer-up' and sue to either fulfill some agenda, or topple some other agenda?
ReplyDeleteI would think many districts and organizations are writing these use policies to A) partly protect the individual, but B) mostly to protect themselves from over-protective or under-attentive parents and their lawyers.