Information Technology Policies
6010: Computing Resources Appropriate Use Policy
Highline College has a strong commitment to intellectual growth and extended access of educational resources and opportunities. It is the intent of HC to maintain access for its community to local, national and international sources of information and to provide an atmosphere that encourages access to knowledge and the sharing of information. It is also the intent of the College to provide and maintain up-to-date, quality computing resources that allow for efficient and effective performance of instructional and administrative functions.
It is expected that members of the College community will use College computing resources with respect for the public trust through which they have been provided and in accordance with policy and procedures established by the College and its operating units.
This policy applies to all employees, students and the general public when using the college’s computing resources. It is each individual’s responsibility to use these resources in a manner that is efficient, ethical and legal.
In this policy, computing resources are defined as those computers (e.g.; personal digital assistants, laptops, desktops), peripherals, software, networks, electronic messaging systems (email, voice mail, facsimile) and imaging systems operated by or for the benefit of the students and employees of the College.
General Provisions
All users of Highline’s computing resources shall adhere to both the letter and spirit of this policy, to ensure a predictable and secure computing environment for all and compliance with Washington State ethics rules, statutes and regulations as well as the mission, policies and procedures of Highline College.
Links to relevant statutes, rules and policies:
Failure to comply may result in loss of access to College computing resources, as well as administrative, civil or criminal action under Washington State or federal law.
- HC computing resources shall be used in accordance with local, state and federal laws.
- HC computing resources shall not be used to transmit any communication in any form (e.g., text, images, sound) where the content or meaning of the message or its transmission or distribution would violate any applicable law or regulation. (e.g.:http://ethics.wa.gov/RESOURCES/FAQ.htm) Users must comply with licensing agreements and copyright laws. Duplication or use of software, images, music or other intellectual materials, which violates licensing agreements and copyright laws, is not permitted.
- It is the obligation of College employees to be aware of and comply with the governing law, rules, and guidelines set forth in Chapter 42.52 RCW, Ethics in Public Service Act (Link #1 above) and WAC 292-110-010, Use of state resources (Link #2 above).
- It is the obligation of College students to be aware of their responsibilities as outlined in the Students Rights and Responsibilities policy (Link #4 above).
- It is the obligation of members of the general public using college computing resources to be aware of their rights and responsibilities as outlined in this policy, copies of which will be available at the Circulation Desk of the Library.
Users shall respect the rights and property of others and not improperly access or attempt to access, misuse, misappropriate or violate security of computing resources.
- Sharing of passwords constitutes a violation to network security, which may lead to unauthorized use or misuse of campus resources. All computer account passwords are confidential and should not be shared with anyone. Individuals will be held accountable for any activity occurring through the use of their respective passwords.
- Using someone else’s password, regardless of how it was obtained, is also a violation of this policy.
- Running or installing a program intended to damage or create excessive load on any computer system or network is forbidden.
- Using the campus network to gain unauthorized access to any computer system is forbidden.
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6020: Accessible Technology
In accordance with the SBCTC Accessible Technology Policy, technology and electronic content procured, developed, maintained, and used by Highline College (HC) will provide substantially similar functionality, user experience, and information access to individuals with disabilities as provided to others. This policy encompasses, but is not limited to, digital instructional materials, hardware, software, and Highline College websites.
Recommended for adoption by PDC December 7, 2017