Lethbridge School Division strongly believes in the value of educational technology. These technologies include but are not limited to computers, software, Internet access, email, telephones, course management systems, etc. Their potential is in promoting educational excellence by facilitating sharing of resources, access to information, innovation, global communication and collaboration. Extending education beyond the classroom enhances the ability of teachers and students to meet the challenges of the future.
Access to Electronic Communication Lethbridge School Division believes that electronic communication is a tool for life-long learning, and that access to technology is one of the resources that promote educational and organizational excellence. We believe the responsible use of technology will propel today's schools into the information age allowing students and staff to significantly expand their knowledge by accessing and using information resources, and by analyzing and publishing information.
We firmly believe that the valuable information and interaction available through the use of technology far outweighs the possibility that users may procure material that is not consistent with educational goals.
Use of Internet - Internet access is made available to further the educational goals and objectives of the district and Alberta Learning. Lethbridge School Division believes that the benefits of the availability of the Internet to students and staff, in the form of information resources and opportunities for collaboration, far exceed any disadvantages. It should be understood that the Internet provides access to computers, people and information from all over the world.
However, the information is neither verified, edited nor regulated and, as such, materials may be available that may be illegal, inappropriate, or lacking in educational value. The District has taken steps to limit access to inappropriate content on the Internet. Nevertheless, on a global network, it is impossible to control all materials that a user may access. Thus, it should be understood, that some of this content may still be accessible. The district continues to educate teachers and students about how to safely and responsibly use the Internet. To further reduce the chance of students accessing inappropriate material on the Internet, the school district has chosen to implement Internet filters from Grades Kindergarten to Twelve.
It is recognized that Internet filtering is only one component of many that need to be followed to ensure student safety while accessing the Internet. Use of Electronic Communication Students and staff are expected to demonstrate the same kind of responsible behaviour while communicating in an electronic learning environment, as would be expected in any district environment. Communications in the electronic medium are frequently public in nature, and, therefore, district and school policies for behaviour and communication will apply. Be aware that electronic communication, such as e-mail, is not guaranteed to be private. Acceptable use includes but is not limited to:
- Using district electronic communication for educational reasons.
- Being polite.
- Using appropriate language. Refraining from swearing, the use of vulgarities, or any other inappropriate language.
- Refraining from illegal activities. Such activities are strictly forbidden and will be reported to the appropriate authority.
- Refraining from the release of personal information (address, phone number or other information) that may allow you or others to be identified.
Our expectation is our students will become educated and responsible digital citizens. There are no expectations that a student must have their own mobile device; students have access to the school’s technologies. With the ability to bring a personal device comes a new level of responsibility. Our students’ safety in an online environment is of utmost importance to us and learning to be a responsible digital citizen will increase and awareness of the power of the Internet but will enhance their learning opportunities. The use of personal devices in our school will be at the discretion of our staff members.