Acceptable Use Policies

"An acceptable use policy (AUP) is a document that outlines a set of rules to be followed by users or customers of a set of computing resources, which could be a computer network, website or large computer system. An AUP clearly states what the user is and is not allowed to do with the these resources." Technopedia (2012)

The national Education Association recommends that a good acceptable use policy should have a preamble, definition section, policy statement, acceptable uses section, unacceptable uses section, and a violations/sanctions section. (2004) However, I noticed that some of the institutions that I researched were lacking a clear label for acceptable use in the first place. 

It was difficult to find acceptable use policies for institutions similar to mine. I think it is because they can be listed under different titles and in different places. However, I did look at some policies that impacted my community in Boise ID. It appears like many places lack all of the components recommended in a firm policy. The biggest surprise was from Boise Public Schools. 

Idaho State Agency Employees Acceptable Use Policy
The state of Idaho has a reliable and descriptive acceptable use policy. It has all of the components laid out in a detailed manner. 

Department of Defense Acceptable Use Policy
Many people in Idaho serve in the military, so it is worth exploring. DOD's policy requires a signature and seems like a high priority. 

Micron's Acceptable Use Policy
Micron is a major employer in Boise ID. In this ethics manual, some acceptable use guidelines are listed on page 26, but not explicitly labeled as an acceptable use policy. This policy is specific and thorough. 

Boise Public Schools Acceptable Use Policy
I couldn't find a specific Acceptable Use Policy, but the policy manual has something close on pages 55 and 56 of the Manual. It seems strict because it says that all material has to be approved by the board. However, when using movies, it simply states that teachers must comply with the law. 

Boise State Acceptable Use Policy
Boise State's policy is short and to the point. In summary, it reserves rights for itself and everything must be in compliance with state and national laws. 



References:

1.(2012). What is an Acceptable Use Policy (AUP)? -
Definition from ... Retrieved February 24, 2016, from https://www.techopedia.com/definition/2471/acceptable-use-policy-aup.

2.(2004). Education World: Getting Started on the Internet: Acceptable ... Retrieved February 24, 2016, from http://www.educationworld.com/a_curr/curr093.shtml.