Activity #5 Law and Ethics

Law and Ethics

The world has become such a small space since social media has become so prevalent. Come on now. Be honest. Did you stalk a new colleague on facebook as soon as you got their name as the new staff member? And when you found them did you make judgements based on what you saw? It is something that routinely happens now in a wide range of situations. Prospective employers, parents checking out the new boyfriend/girlfriend and so it goes on.
 I teach primary school and it is alarming how many students have a facebook profile that is unguarded and open to the world. These students do not have the maturity or knowledge of repercussions that they may face as a result of these public postings.
  But they are kids - how can a bunch of professionals show so little regard for the same media that we claim to know so much about?
  We aim to teach our students to be digital citizens who will use media responsibly. Great ideal. Then I see so many posts that make me say "What were they thinking?" as teachers are shown partying, drunk etc.
 Many of the posts that I appear in would seem to indicate a great fondness for wine. In reality I may have a drink once a week, but that is not what my posts indicate in a joking sort of way. I guess that is why I lock down my account as best I can to family and friends.
  I would hate to think that an innocent joke on fb could compromise my position according to the Code of Conduct. The review of this code, which is currently being undertaken, reflects the intensity of scrutiny that teachers are under. Every action needs to be carefully considered taking into account the privacy laws, the vulnerable children legislation, the education act, the school policies and the least used one - good old common sense. Teachers must never be alone with a child - I get that - no photos can be published without parental permission - I understand that, but wonder how long it will be before a student can challenge that decision in their own right - I must not hug a child - no - can't work with that. That is a bridge too far. If I can make a difference in students lives I need to be able to meet their social, emotional and educational needs. If legislation will prevent that, then it is time I found another way of earning a living.
  I am happy to see restrictions on the use of digital media as we struggle to help our students understand the whys and what ifs, and I guess we need to look at exactly those issues for our own image and images.