Introduction
At Ziauddin Education System we realise that part of 21st Century learning is adapting to changing methods of communication. The importance of teachers, students and parents engaging, collaborating, learning, and sharing in these digital environments is a part of 21st Century learning.
In this regard, the school/college has developed the following policy to provide direction for teachers and students when participating in social media activities.
Ziauddin Schools and Colleges accept that the use of social media can be an effective business tool and that such media are commonly used to express views, comments, and ideas on a whole range of issues.
However, it is expected that all members of the school/college should behave within and outside of the school/college in such a manner that the welfare or reputation of members of the school/college community are not adversely impacted or not negatively affected or brought into disrepute.
We expect those who are part of Ziauddin Schools and Colleges, when using social media, to show courtesy and respect to others. It should not be used to abuse others, to be offensive or to denigrate or show disrespect for the school or members of its community.
Therefore, the purpose of this policy is to set standards of behaviour for the use of social media, thus creating an atmosphere of trust and individual accountability.
Definitions
Social Media – refers to all social networking sites such as, but not limited to, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, various chat-rooms, Zoom and any other connectivity platforms.
Rights and Responsibilities
A community can only function effectively when all members treat each other with respect. Members of the school community are expected to give respect to others and maintain the reputation and good name of Ziauddin Schools.
This policy is not intended to discourage or limit a person’s personal expression or online activities, as the school has no potential or right to influence or interfere with any individual’s personal activities. However, potential for direct or indirect damage to be caused to others in school, or the school as a whole, through inappropriate use of social media.
As such, a person’s online behaviour should reflect the same standards of honesty, respect, and consideration that a person uses face-to-face.
Therefore, when using social media, members of our school community are expected to:
- Demonstrate appropriate personal and professional boundaries and behaviours
- Demonstrate good digital citizenship
- Ensure their online behaviour reflects the same standards of honesty, respect, and consideration that a person uses when communicating face-to-face
- Respect the rights, privacy and confidentiality of others
- Ensure all content published is accurate and not misleading
- Consider whether how and what is posted accurately and honestly reflects on an individual’s professional or personal character and the welfare of others
- Not post or respond to material that is offensive, obscene, defamatory, threatening, harassing, bullying, discriminatory, hateful, threatening, violent, racist, infringes copyright or is otherwise unlawful or might cause damage to the School’s reputation or bring it into disrepute
REMEMBER: Even a ‘private conversation’ may still be shared in a more public domain. As such a person is always responsible for what they post regardless of circumstances or intention.