HISTORY DEPARTMENTFALL 2014

Computer Use Outside of School

Can I use my computer for things other than schoolwork?

YES! BUT… Recognize that you do not own the computer. The

school owns the computer and your parents lease it. Because the school owns the computer, they have

access to everything you do on it. The primary purpose of the computer is to be a tool

for your education, not for your personal use.

Cool! So I can do whatever I want with my computer then, right?

NO! Some things are not appropriate for your school computer… Obvious examples: pornography, explicit

videos/movies/music, pirated music/games/apps, cyber bullying, etc.

Remember that the school has access to everything you do on your school computer.

If you do use your laptop for personal use, remember that you will turn it in at the end of the school year and everything will be wiped clean. Make sure you keep all of your important files, music, pictures, etc. backed up!

Laptops should not be used for personal things during school hours. Period. No games, messaging, videos, social media, etc. during class. Your computer could be confiscated if you do not abide by this.

I’m so excited to finally have my own computer so my parents can’t tell me what to do on it!

WRONG! Your parents pay to lease the computer for you.

Therefore, they have the right to access it. Make sure your parents have your password. This is

done not only out of respect, but to hold you accountable for your actions on your computer.

It’s a good idea to make sure your parents have your eBook and PowerSchool passwords as well in case you forget them.

The best part of having the laptop is getting to play all the games and watch all the movies

I want!

Not a good idea! Having your own laptop is a huge responsibility! You have to learn how to be a good manager of your

time. A good rule of thumb: limit yourself to no more than

one hour a day doing personal things on the laptop (games, social media, surfing the web, etc.).

You should only use the laptop for personal things after you’ve completed your schoolwork for the day.

Ok! I’ll just do all of my personal things on my computer right before bed.

Another bad idea! Studies show that your brain doesn’t properly rest

if you stay on your electronics right up until you go to sleep.

Another good rule of thumb: Put all of your electronics (including your phone) away at least one hour before bed to allow your brain to settle down before sleep.

Make sure your power down your computer and set it on the charger before you go to bed to make sure your battery is full for the next day! Many teachers will not allow you to charge in class.

Geez! Am I allowed to even have any fun with my computer?

Yes! But… Part of being a young adult means learning to balance

fun with work and responsibility!