Who bears the responsibilty of misuse?
Great meeting this afternoon yielding interesting action. I successfully lobbied the MIS department to relax the internet filter for teacher accounts. To be honest, it was an unexpected, but welcome move by the department.
Here is how it went down. After some back forth between the director, I, and a well intentioned technician, the conversation changed from what could go wrong to whose responsibility is it when something does go wrong. Each side had valid points. The techs feel they need to protect both the system and the students, while I see internet use on company time as an adult decision. The sticking point was really a common argument; if something goes wrong who is responsible, the user or the provider. There was a real worry that if a large problem was revealed that the “well they let me” defense could be invoked.
In the end there seemed to be a small, albeit contentious, agreement. Decision: Teachers (I say professionals) are capable of making decisions regarding what resources are necessary to effectively teach. The caveat is that if they find evidence of misuse, they reserve the right to lock it back down. Frankly, I am okay with that if it is done the right way. I hope the right way goes something like this: run the reports, collect evidence, and provide a warning. If the violation is recorded again then the person needs to be taken through the proper discipline channels.
We all agreed that violations are things like gambling, eBay shopping, or fantasy sports. What the majority of us call complete stupidity if you are supposed to be at work. (Unfortunately also a reality)
It’s a start and we’ll see how it goes, but I think this may be a move that will be looked upon as positive for all parties. The teachers are treated like capable, professional adults, the administration shows trust in the staff, and the students have a chance to learn from up-to-the-minute material located on the web.
Or did I just give myself a whole lot o’ rope?
