Computer and Electronic Access and Usage

1.0 Scope

Access to computer and electronic communication resources, such as the Internet, electronic mail, computer classrooms, associated software, and networks, is a privilege provided at the discretion of Northland Pioneer College (NPC). Technology Advancement and Support (TAS) will work in cooperation with departments for computer setup, maintenance, and areas of security and permission. All material on college servers shall be accessible to authorized personnel when necessary to fulfill their administrative responsibilities. NPC maintains the rights allowed by all federal and state laws and institutional governance. NPC reserves the right to monitor network resources and to prohibit use.

2.0 Purpose

This procedure defines standards for acceptable and unacceptable use of computer and electronic access.

3.0 Definitions

4.0 Procedure

Internet, computing, and network accounts are generally available to faculty and staff, registered students, and authorized guests. Accounts are for the sole use of the individual to whom the account is issued. Generic accounts are used for access to third-party student testing services and authorized, classroom instructional use, which must be approved by the appropriate dean and vice president.

Acceptable use:

• To support educational objectives and enhance the mission of the College.
• To conduct official college business.
• To support teaching and learning.
• To serve the information and communication needs of the community.
• To deliver instructional content.
• To disseminate information about the college.

Unacceptable Use:

• Plagiarism, falsification, forgery, or unauthorized modification of college-related documents, including the college logo; unauthorized use of the college name; false representation; unauthorized use of the account or files of another individual; and forgery to conceal identity.
• Electronic mail chain letters or spamming.
• Installation and use of unauthorized software or hardware.
• Use for personal financial gain or for private commercial activities apart from approved coursework or contracted services.
• Playing network games, entertainment streaming and using high-resource applications, including printing multiple copies or excessive copies.
• Destruction, impairment, misuse or changes in configuration of hardware or software; actions which obstruct, disrupt or interfere with college activity; circumvention of data and software protection schemes.
• Any illegal activities, including but not limited to hacking, harassment, obscenity, pornography, violation of privacy, violation of copyright protection.
• Storing or downloading files, software, or documents on the hard drives of computers open to public access.
• Failing to follow established guidelines for computer use.

This is not intended to be an all-inclusive or exhaustive list of matters to consider.

Any activity violating state or federal laws, NPC’s Codes of Conduct (eg Procedures 2601 and 2602), or Northland Pioneer College Acceptable Use Policies and Procedures may result in disciplinary action, including loss of access and repair charges.

Employees will be required to sign a statement of understanding at hire and then annually.