This policy outlines the expectations and responsibilities of learners when using technology provided by Global Skills, or when accessing our network or online services. Technology includes computers, tablets, mobile phones, cameras, printers, projectors, software, internet and email.

Use of technology in general

• Learners must use technology in a responsible, respectful and safe manner, following our rules and values.
• Learners must not use technology to access, create, store or share any material that is illegal, offensive, harmful, bullying, discriminatory or extremist.
• Learners must report any inappropriate or illegal content or behaviour they encounter online to a trusted adult or through www.thinkuknow.co.uk
• Learners must respect the privacy and intellectual property rights of others and not copy, download or share any material without permission.
• Learners must not use technology to interfere with the work or learning of others or to damage or disrupt our network or systems.
  
  

Use of hardware

• Learners must handle all hardware with care and follow the instructions for its use and maintenance.
• Learners must not attempt to install, modify, delete or damage any hardware or software without permission from a teacher or technician.
• Learners must not connect any personal devices to our network or systems without permission from a teacher or technician.
• Learners must return any borrowed hardware in good condition and on time.

Use of usernames and passwords

• Learners must keep their usernames and passwords secure and not share them with anyone else.
• Learners must not use anyone else’s username or password to access the school or college network or systems.
• Learners must log out of their accounts when they finish using them and lock their devices when they are not in use.
• Learners must notify a teacher or technician if they suspect that their account has been compromised.

Use of software such as Microsoft Teams, Office 365 and OneFile

• Learners must use software such as Microsoft Teams, Office 365 and OneFile for educational purposes only and in accordance with the school or college rules and values.
• Learners must communicate online in a polite and respectful manner and not use any language or images that are inappropriate, offensive, harmful, bullying, discriminatory or extremist.
• Learners must not share any personal information about themselves or others online without permission from a teacher or parent/carer.
• Learners must respect the privacy and intellectual property rights of others and not copy, download or share any material without permission.

Use of data

• Learners must handle any data they collect, store or process in a responsible and ethical manner, following the school or college rules and values.
• Learners must comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018 when dealing with personal data of others.
• Learners must only collect, store and process personal data for lawful purposes and with consent from the data subjects.
• Learners must only retain personal data for as long as necessary and dispose of it securely when it is no longer needed.
• Learners must implement appropriate measures to ensure the security and confidentiality of personal data.
• Learners must inform a teacher or technician of any data breaches that may affect their personal data or the personal data of others without undue delay.

Online safety

• Learners must be aware of the potential risks and dangers of using technology and the internet, such as cyberbullying, grooming, phishing, scams, identity theft and malware.
• Learners must protect themselves online by using strong passwords, antivirus software, privacy settings and secure websites.
• Learners must be careful about what they post online and how they present themselves on social media platforms. They should avoid posting anything that could harm their reputation, relationships or future opportunities.
• Learners must be respectful of others online and not engage in any behaviour that could hurt, harass, threaten or offend anyone. They should also report any such behaviour they witness to a trusted adult or through www.thinkuknow.co.uk
• Learners must seek help from a trusted adult if they feel uncomfortable, scared or pressured by anyone online. They should also block and report any unwanted contacts.

Online meeting etiquette

• Learners must be on time or early for the virtual meeting and check their audio and video settings before joining.
• Learners must mute their microphone when they are not speaking and turn off their camera when their video may be displaying something distracting.
• Learners must dress appropriately for the virtual meeting and choose a suitable background that does present itself in an appropriate manner.