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Information
Technology, Ethical Use Policy
Copyright
Infringement Penalties
Reducing
Your Liability
The
Bottom Lines
Where
to Get Additional Resources
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The proper and ethical use of computers, software and related networks is required at the Conroe Independent School District. In providing access to knowledge and sharing of information, the District requires that these resources be used by all members of its community with respect for the public trust through which the resources have been provided. The District works to create an intellectual environment in which students, faculty and staff are free to create and to collaborate with colleagues, both local and at other institutions, without fear that the products of their intellectual efforts will be violated by misrepresentation, tammpering, destruction, theft or other misuse and abuse.
Access to the District's information resources, the sharing of information and the security of the intellectual product of the community all require that each and every user accept responsibility both for protection of his or her own data and for the rights of the community. Access to the networks and to the information technology environment is a privilege and must be treated as such by all users of these systems.
As a condition of use of all district information technology facilities, all users must:
Abide by copyright laws
and the terms and conditions of the license. (When in doubt, do not copy
software and files!)
Use computing systems
and networks only for purposes related to district activities.
Use computer systems
and networks in a manner that respects the shared use of these systems.
(Do not include abusive, harassing, lewd, obscene, libelous or slanderous
materials.)
Respect the privacy
of other users' files and intellectual property.
Maintain the integrity
and functionality of computing systems and networks.
Among other prohibitions, users must not:
Attempt to bypass or
damage security or access control systems.
Share computer accounts
and passwords on shared systems.
Move or modify computer
equipment, software or peripherals without proper authorization.
Developing a strong sense of ethics in students concerning use of computers and software supports the District's obligation to inculcate values. By setting appropriate examples, each person contributes to the reputation of the District for producing responsible students of high integrity. Individuals found guilty of unethical, destructive, or illegal activities on district computers or networks will be dealt with in the same manner as violators of other state or federal laws or district rules or polices. Such actions may result in disciplinary sanctions including the loss of computer and network access privileges, and civil or criminal proceedings. Individuals using district computing and network facilities should be familiar with the guidelines on software copyrights and fair use, as well as guidelines for acceptable use of the Internet.
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Here is a Guide to help you know where to get additional resources for your departmental copyright education program:
The Software Publishers
Association (SPA) offers a Software Management Guide for $80.00. It includes
sample forms, model programs, sample policies, and guidelines. It can be
obtained from:
Software Publishers Association
Attention: Fulfillment Dept.
1730 M Street Northwest
Suite #700
Washington, D.C. 20036
Or phone: (800) 388-7478.
Gary H. Becker,
copyright consultant, has published a manual called Copyright, A Guide
to Information and Resources, First Edition. It includes policies for
all forms of educational media. Copies can be obtained for $23.50 (hard
cover) or $18.50 (soft cover) plus postage fees. They can be obtained from:
Gary H. Becker, Consultant
P.O. Box 951870
Lake Mary, FL 32795-1870
Or phone: (407) 322-0890.
The following videos
are available for check out at all campus libraries and media centers:
"It's Not Worth the Risk" - a 12-minute video for the office environment produced by the SPA which is suitable for employees.
"Don't Copy That Floppy" - a nine-minute rap video by the SPA which is suitable for students.
"Pirates of the HMS Swampgator" - a 1.5 hour DANCE session on copyright compliance including hokey skits and information targeted to the UF audience.
*The Technology Help Desk phone is (409)788-SOLV.
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