Irymple Secondary College –MOBILE TECHNOLOGY POLICY

PURPOSE:

Mobile Technology (eg. mobile phones, iPods) is increasingly a part of our 21st century lifestyles. As such, members of our school community will own and use these devices. As for all tools, they have a purpose and value, but can also be used inappropriately. The purpose of this policy is to clarify the use of these technologies in our school setting so that they are used for positive purposes and not as a disruption or distraction to learning.

AIM:

The aim of this policy is to recognise the importance of mobile technology in society and to support the positive use of mobile technology in learning.

Protocols:

  • The school does not take any responsibility for the loss or damage to mobile technology brought to school.
  • Mobile phones are not to be used during class time. They are to be kept in locked lockers. Appropriate use during recess and lunch is accepted.
  • Mobile technology should only be used in a classroom for educational purposes under the direction of the classroom teacher.
  • All mobile technology use should have a volume set which does not disturb others and enables the user to still hear the human voice.
  • All students and parents are encouraged to participate in “Cybersafety” information sessions as offered periodically by the college. Students are expected to adhere to the Student User Agreement presented at these forums.
  • Mobile technology devices are to be placed in the “valuables tin” during PE classes for safe keeping.
  • Overnight excursions and camps – during an overnight excursion or camp it is expected that all mobile phones will be collected by the teachers in the evening to ensure that sleep is uninterrupted. The same protocols, procedures and expectations, as outlined in this policy, apply for students while on an excursion or camp, which will be left to the discretion of the teacher in charge.

Procedures for inappropriate use of mobile technology:

  • Issues of ‘cyberbullying’ or ‘the transmission of inappropriate materials’ will be dealt with seriously and if appropriate may be referred to the police.
  • Photos, audio or video footage must not be taken of another person without their expressed permission. Such issues may be referred to the police.

Irymple Secondary College MOBILE TECHNOLOGY expectations:
  • IN CLASS, students must have their music device or BYOD OFF unless permission is granted to use.
  • If a student uses their music or BYOD without express permissionfrom the teacher, or not for intended purpose, they will be asked to report to the Student Manager’s office where the device will be placed in a sealed envelope, where possible, and locked in the phone cupboard for safe keeping. The device may be collected at the end of the school day.
  • The same will apply to mobile phones if found to be not in locker during class time.
  • If a student has to hand in their device three times during the term, the student’s parent will be contacted and asked to collect the device from school.
  • Teachers and staff are strongly encouraged not to confiscate mobile devices from students.

Evaluation and Review: December2015