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Remote Learning Guidelines

Remote Learning Guidelines for Privacy and Security

Video Conferencing Strategies

The UCDSB provides this guideline to support educators, students and families to teach and learn in virtual environments while respecting personal privacy.

In addition to the UCDSB’s Appropriate Use of Technology Policy 301 and UCDSB Code of Conduct, students are required to follow this guideline when participating in both “live” (synchronous) classroom activities and those that allow students to contribute as they are available (asynchronous classroom activities).

The UCDSB also expects that parents/guardians will support the implementation of this guideline to facilitate their child’s use of technology.

Educators will monitor classroom activities to ensure alignment with UCDSB’s expectations for privacy and information security. In addition, they will address any concerns directly with students and their parents/guardians, as appropriate. Failure to respect this guideline document may result in the suspension of online classroom privileges and/or suspension/expulsion in accordance with the UCDSB Code of Conduct.


UCDSB Platforms
 

To ensure privacy and security for both students and staff, teachers are directed to use UCDSB approved platforms for distance learning. As all staff transition to only using UCDSB approved platforms, teachers must inform parents/guardians if the tool they are currently using is not board approved and provide clarity regarding the privacy policy and any inherent risks in using this tool.

Parents/guardians are advised to take this opportunity to ask questions and become informed about the tools being used.


Be Mindful of Footprints

Teaching and learning online can contribute to the creation of digital footprints. Teachers and parents/guardians can support students to make informed decisions about what and with whom to share information online. For this reason, staff and students/parents should review the privacy policy of any additional web app before use.

Efforts should be made to reduce the personal information that is shared online. Platforms that do not require registration and do not collect personal information are preferred. Where possible, students should use pseudonyms. Students should not enable geo-tracking, not post photos and refuse the implementation of Cookies.


Recording and screenshots require notice/permission

Educators can only record online learning activities for pedagogical or evaluation purposes and will not do so without prior notice to participants. Participants may not take screenshots or use another device to record or copy classroom activities without asking the teacher first.

Unauthorized recording, screenshots or copying of teaching and learning materials, classroom chats, discussion forums, photos or videos is contrary to UCDSB policies and may violate another person’s right to privacy or be contrary to copyright laws.


Keep your personal privacy in mind when choosing where to sit during video conferencing and when taking photos

You are inviting the school into your home when you video conference or take a photo or video to share, so be mindful not to share private spaces like bedrooms, personal effects such as photographs, or other details you wouldn’t normally share with other teachers and students.

Participate from shared spaces like a home office, kitchen, or living room if you can.


Can others in my home join?

Synchronous (live) and non-synchronous video conferencing are intended to include the educator team and students. When parents/guardians are providing support for the learner during a session, notice should be provided to the teacher. Educators will also provide notice if someone in their home or outside of the educator team must be present. Efforts should be made by everyone to reduce distractions from other children or pets. Parents/guardians who incidentally learn personal information about their learner’s classmates while supporting online learning must keep such information confidential.


In Conclusion

Synchronous learning is an effective strategy to facilitate ongoing, meaningful communication with students and families in support of continued student learning. This Distance Learning Guideline provides all users with the tools to maintain safety and privacy in digital environments.
  1. Think about what you are sharing
  2. Think about everyone else's privacy
  3. Personal security should be taken seriously
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