The use of technology at The Park School includes several important responsibilities.
Communication via computers (such as e-mail, instant messaging, blogs, social networking web sites, etc.) follows the same guidelines as other kinds of communication. Honesty is required in all communications, and therefore any attempt to misrepresent oneself or to hide one's true identity is a violation of our code of conduct. False, hurtful, discourteous, and disrespectful electronic communication is inappropriate and will not be tolerated.
Our computer network is intended for educational purposes. Park's Internet connection may not be used for purposes considered inappropriate within our community. In addition, for reasons of safety, students should never give out personal information through e-mail or over the Internet, just as you would not give your name and address to a stranger on the subway.
The Internet holds great promise as a source of information and as a means to communicate with others around the world. However, it also challenges us to evaluate this information and to use it responsibly in the pursuit of learning.
It is important to note that the Technology Department reserves the right to inspect private computer files and to monitor e-mail and Internet activities, if there is reason to believe that any violation of the law or community standards may be occurring.
We make every effort to respect the rights of publishers by complying with copyrights and license agreements. Installation of software on school computers is supervised by the Technology Department. Duplicating copyrighted software or other electronic content is theft and would be treated in the same manner as theft of physical property.
We expect each student to respect the private ownership of works produced by others in our community. This pertains to works stored in computer files, as well as the more traditional paper products of written language or art. In the regular course of using computers, students or teachers may store files in publicly accessible places. It is not permissible to copy, modify, destroy, or even read the private works of others without the owner's permission. Unless clearly specified, all computer documents must be treated as private.
Furthermore, when you choose to incorporate information that you find on the Internet, or from other electronic sources into your own work, such as research papers and reports, you must give proper credit to the authors and owners of any information you use. Your Study Skills Guide or your teacher will show you the appropriate format for giving credit to Internet and other sources. Using the work of others without giving proper credit is plagiarism.
Recognizing that computers and other technology tools like printers, scanners, cameras, projectors, etc. are shared, fragile and expensive resources, students must treat these objects with care. It is every student's responsibility to leave these devices in proper working order. Computer hardware and software may not be modified except under the supervision of the Technology Department.
If you believe that you are a victim of inappropriate use of technology at School, or if you know of a violation of our Technology Code of Conduct, we encourage you to speak to your teacher, advisor, or other trusted adult.
