Ethics
With any digital device, from iPod Touch to lap top computers, every item has the potential to work on good things or bad things according to what the user puts in the computer or device. As educators we need to teach students how important it is to yield their devices correctly and protect them from any potential threats. Students need to learn to use appropriate conduct while in use of their devices. They need to clearly understand that there are consequences to inappropriate conduct. But hopefully the benefits of technology out weigh the bad occurrences.
Bullying is not a new concept. However, cyber-bullying has been at the forefront of educator's minds since the Columbine incident. There has been a nationwide campaign to instruct students and staff alike on this subject. This campaign is a proactive approach to stop the problem within our culture.
I would like to say one thing about an AUP: sign it! It protects both you and your employer! Some people have expressed that it is an invasion of your privacy. I can understand that, but what are you doing at work that constitutes the administration not to trust you?
Copyright
As educators, we walk a fine line when we "borrow" things or ideas to teach a lesson. We must be careful not infringing on what lawfully belongs to someone else. Students are drilled on the issue of plagiarism throughout their academic life. How much more should an educator be responsible for handling lesson material properly.
Unclear on what or how to teach with copyrighted materials? See this website:
http://www.usg.edu/galileo/skills/unit08/credit08_11.phtml
http://www.teachersfortomorrow.net/1/post/2012/01/sopa-and-pipa.html