Electronic Devices Policy

Definition of an Electronic Device. An electronic device includes all of the following devices.

Mobile Phone

Digital Camera

iPod

Games Device

Student Laptop

Tablet

iPad

Aim of the WSC Electronic Device Policy To ensure that the use of any electronic device including mobile telephones does not interfere with the effective conduct of the College program, including the smooth running of the school and the education and safety of other students.

Guidelines The use of mobile phones and electronic devices in class is not acceptable unless used at the specific direction of the class room teacher for planned curriculum activities

Currently Mobile Phones are the devices most likely to be used for cyber bullying or activities which will distract students from learning their tasks.

THE RULE IS; NO MOBILE PHONES TO BE USED OR SEEN IN THE CLASSROOM. During class time students should consider strongly leaving their mobile phones in their bags in their lockers.

Mobile Phone Box Class teachers may provide a Mobile Phone Box in their class room. The procedure is; Students turn their mobile phone off before entering the class room. They place their phone in the Mobile Phone Box. The classroom teacher may lock the Mobile Phone Box away safely for the lesson. Students collect their phones as they leave the classroom.

Mobile Phone Box Classroom teachers may ask students to put their mobile phones in another designated place for the duration of the class.

Mobile Phone Box If a student brings their Mobile Phone to class but fails to put their phone in a designated place or a Mobile Phone Box, at the teachers request, that student will be liable for a range of consequences in accordance with College policies.

Have their mobile phones switched off and out of sight in classrooms. Year 11 & 12 Students Have their mobile phones switched off and out of sight in classrooms.

Cyber Bullying Cyber Bullying is direct verbal or indirect bullying behaviours using digital technologies. This includes harassment via a mobile phone, setting up a defamatory personal website or deliberately excluding someone from social networking spaces.

Cyber bullying can be extremely harmful to students.

Exam Rules Students are required adhere to VCAA and College exam rules, and must not take mobile phones into examination rooms

Photos and Video. The College has a DEECD approved publications policy in regards to the taking of and publications of photographs of students and staff. All parents sign this policy as part of the enrolment process.

Photos and Video Students are not to use mobile phones to take images of staff, other students at school or community members without permission.

Students and Parents need to be aware that; the official method of contact between parents and students in the event of an emergency is via the General Office, Sub-School Managers, Student Managers, Assistant Principal, College Chaplain or Wellbeing Manager using SMS, email, the College Website or telephone.

The College does not accept responsibility for the loss, theft or damage to any student mobile telephone at school. The College will not spend time investigating lost or stolen mobile phones

Consequences for not following Electronic Devices Policy Students must hand over their mobile phone when requested by a member of staff. The mobile phone will be confiscated, turned off and will be secured in a safe place. It may be collected at the end of the College day. Refusing to hand over a phone when requested may lead to detention, parental contact and/or suspension. College consequences may be applied and parents may be contacted. Repeated offences may incur further consequences. Offences, such as the use of an in-phone camera without consent or used inappropriately, may be deemed a criminal offence and referred to the police.

The College reminds students to ensure that their phones are always stored in a safe and secure place.

The College advises students and parents that it will; take appropriate and strong action against any student who:- -photographs or films other individuals without their consent or who send harassing or threatening messages. -is/are caught using a mobile phone in exams or assessments.

If your friend is being cyber bullied Do something about it! Talk to a responsible adult. Talk to Sue Muir, Student Welfare or Ian Findley, Chaplain. Do not let your friend suffer.

Cyber Safety Websites http://www.cybersmart.gov.au/

Cyber Safety Websites Links to resources on Susan McLean’s website