What is the UM-ISHS's policy on appropriate use of intellectual property?

Access to the technology utilized by the UM-Independent Study High School imposes certain responsibilities and obligations. Appropriate use incorporates ethical and honest behavior and demonstrates respect for physical and intellectual property, system security protocols, and individuals' rights to privacy and freedom from intimidation, harassment, and unwarranted annoyance.

By enrolling in this course, students accept the terms of this policy and acknowledge that they hold The University of Mississippi Independent Study High School harmless for any injury or offense they may suffer by accessing information on the Internet. Students agree to:

Use Internet resources for authorized purposes only. Respect the work and creativity of the authors of materials seen on the Internet. Therefore, students will not copy files from the Internet for any use other than personal use, unless the webmaster explicitly states that the page may be copied indiscriminately.

Use only legal versions of copyrighted software in full compliance with licensing agreements. Respect the work and creativity of software developers by not downloading or duplicating licensed software. Students understand that they may download public domain programs and will pay for shareware programs. They assume all risks in determining if the program is public domain, shareware, or licensed.

Exercise responsible, ethical behavior. The Internet is a global network of information. In addition to useful scholarly information, students may find information that is inaccurate or plagiarized. Gatekeepers or systems of censorship are not in place on the Internet.Students must understand that they are not permitted to intentionally access profane or offensive information.

Respect individual’s freedom from harassment. UM-ISHS students will protect the privacy of their classmates. They will not publish any names, passwords, e-mail addresses or other information pertaining to other students. They will not use an e-mail account as a means to harass people who use the Internet, including teachers and other students.

Actions that constitute inappropriate use include, but are not limited to:

• using a login or password other than his/her own without permission;
  
• using file data other than his/her own without permission;
  
• attempting to break into system operations of the network or servers;
  
• attempting to decode or circumvent security protocols;
  
• engaging in activity that exposes the systems and residing information to any level of harm or danger;
  
• making illegal copies of software; and
  
• engaging in any activity that does not comply with the UM-ISHS nondiscriminatory policy.

Students who violate any part of this agreement or engage in any other activity that school authorities consider inappropriate will be subject to disciplinary action consistent with the UM-ISHS academic honesty policies and procedures. Discipline could include, but would not be limited to, immediate suspension or termination of Internet access for the course(s).

Any attempt to break into or tamper with the system operations, including any student records or grades, will result in cancellation of privileges.

P. O. Box 7959 • University, MS 38677 • Telephone: 662-915-1296 • Fax: 662-915-5138 • Email: dena@olemiss.edu