Code of Professional Ethics for Teachers:
Using Technology in the Elementary Setting

Introduction

Basic Principles

Accessibility

Censorship

Copyright

Crime and Misconduct

Privacy

Instructional Implications

Resources

Home

Basic Principles


This code of ethics contains the following principles, which will be explained in greater detail in the corresponding pages of this document:

  • Provide technological access to all students.
  • Provide access to all students with special needs... Includes students with hearing and visual problems, ESL students, physically challenged students, etc.
  • Provide opportunities for parent (and/or community) access.

II. Censorship

  • Only allow access to materials that support the instructional program.
  • Recognize and respect the limited freedom of speech associated with the use of technology within the school setting.
  • Review instructional materials to be used in the classroom prior to use.

III. Copyright

  • Cite references to the work of others.
  • Follow fair use guidelines when making copies of materials.
  • Only install software that has been legally purchased or licensed for a particular computer.
  • Avoid use of technology in any way that could be considered sexual harassment.
  • Refrain from copying and/or electronically distributing copyright protected material.
  • Avoid intentional disruptions of network activities, vandalizing equipment, or tampering with server.
  • Uphold all state and federal laws pertaining to technology.
  • Copy, distribute, and email only materials appropriate in the work setting.
  • Avoid using or tampering with unauthorized files, logins and passwords.
  • Limit personal use of technological equipment during work hours.
  • Password protect sensitive material.
  • Treat the content of electronic communication with respect.
  • Treat computer files as personal property.
  • Maintain confidentiality of student records.
  • Maintain student privacy on the Internet.
  • Identify the social, ethical, legal and human issues surrounding the use of technology and apply and model those principles in practice.
  • Identify and employ technology resources that enable and empower learners from diverse backgrounds, characteristics, and abilities.
  • Organize technology environments to help students avoid temptation and to minimize the opportunities for technology misuse in the classroom.
  • Integrate technology throughout the curriculum to support content learning and the acquisition of computing skills while demonstrating the ethical principles described throughout this document.
  • Keep abreast of the changes in the world of technology.
  • Support colleagues in their efforts to expand personal and classroom use of available technologies.
  • Insure the privacy of their students while using available technologies.
  • Familiarize students about the commercial nature of web sites.
  • Involve the community at large to support the ethical use of technology.