Responsible Use of Technology Plan

 There are many different aspects of technology for me to consider as I develop my "responsible use of technology plan". Safety is important, as well as equal access for all students, proper use of copyright materials and assuring that the entertainment value of technology does not interfere with the students studies.

The world wide web provides wonderful opportunities for students to research and explore many topics as well as providing real time communication. I will be sure that any computer with internet access is protected with a firewall and filters to assure that only accessible sites are able to be viewed by the student. The Firewall and filters will provide security but monitoring of the students activity is still vital. I will arrange the computers in my classroom so that the monitor is easily viewed by me. Safety rules and guidelines will also be posted at each computer center and the students will be verbally reminded of them frequently.

The Rules and guidelines are as follow

1) Only go to web sites that are approved by the teacher

2) Do not give out any personal information such as name, address, phone number, age. birthday, school, or anything that could identify you.

3) If you are being bothered by someone online tell the teacher.

Equal access for all students to the computer is important, therefore I will not use the computer as a reward but as a tool for educational benefits. I will do what ever I can to make sure that students who do not have access to a computer at home have extra computer time to  complete assignments. This may be done in the evening through open computer time.

Many students find working on the computers enjoyable and many of the educational programs are fun and entertaining but students must participate in other types of learning also. I will try to balance technology based learning with traditional methods of educating students. Also as I use videos, software, and other technology I will be sure to always follow the copyright laws. I will also make sure that the students know how to evaluate web pages.