Acceptable Use Policy

1. Scope and Application

This Acceptable Use Policy applies to all users of eduSYMS services, including:

2. Acceptable Use Guidelines

3. Student-Specific Guidelines

Academic Integrity

• Submit only original work or properly cited materials
• Do not share assignment answers or solutions inappropriately
• Respect intellectual property and copyright laws
• Use AI tools only when permitted by instructors

Digital Citizenship

• Treat others with respect in all digital interactions
• Use appropriate language in all communications
• Report inappropriate behavior to school administrators
• Protect personal and others' privacy information

Technology Use

• Use school technology resources responsibly
• Follow device and internet usage policies
• Keep login credentials secure and private
• Log out properly after each session

4. Educator Responsibilities

Professional Standards

• Maintain professional relationships with students and colleagues
• Use the platform primarily for educational purposes
• Protect student privacy and confidential information
• Model appropriate digital behavior for students

Data Management

• Handle student data according to privacy policies and legal requirements
• Use secure methods for sharing sensitive information
• Regularly review and update access permissions
• Report any data security concerns immediately

Content Responsibility

• Ensure all shared content is appropriate and educational
• Respect copyright and intellectual property rights
• Verify accuracy of information before sharing
• Remove or update outdated or incorrect content

5. Security Requirements

Account Security

• Strong Passwords: Use complex passwords with multiple character types
• Confidentiality: Never share login credentials with others
• Multi-Factor Authentication: Enable when available and required
• Session Management: Log out when finished, especially on shared devices

Data Protection

• Access only data you are authorized to view
• Use secure networks when accessing the platform
• Report suspected security breaches immediately
• Keep devices and software updated with security patches

Privacy Compliance

• Follow POPI Act and other applicable privacy regulations
• Obtain proper consent before collecting personal information
• Limit data collection to educational purposes only
• Respect data subject rights and requests

6. Monitoring and Enforcement

System Monitoring

eduSYMS reserves the right to monitor platform usage to:

• Ensure compliance with this policy
• Protect student safety and wellbeing
• Maintain system security and performance
• Investigate reported violations
• Meet legal and regulatory requirements

Violation Reporting

Users can report policy violations through:

• Built-in reporting tools within the platform
• Email to: [email protected]
• Contact with school administrators
• Anonymous reporting systems where available

7. Incident Response Procedures

Immediate Actions

1. Document: Record details of the incident or violation
2. Report: Notify appropriate administrators or authorities
3. Preserve: Maintain evidence and relevant information
4. Isolate: Prevent further damage or violations if necessary

Investigation Process

• Fair and impartial review of all reported incidents
• Opportunity for accused parties to respond
• Consideration of context and intent
• Proportionate responses to violations

Appeals Process

Users may appeal disciplinary decisions by:

• Submitting written appeals within 10 business days
• Providing additional evidence or context
• Requesting review by higher authority
• Following school-specific appeals procedures

8. Digital Citizenship Education

Ongoing Training

eduSYMS promotes digital citizenship through:

• Regular training sessions for all user groups
• Educational resources and best practices guides
• Integration of digital citizenship in curriculum
• Peer mentoring and support programs

Key Principles

• Respect: Treating others with dignity online and offline
• Responsibility: Taking ownership of digital actions
• Critical Thinking: Evaluating information and sources
• Empathy: Understanding impact on others
• Integrity: Being honest and authentic in digital spaces

9. Legal Compliance

Applicable Laws

All users must comply with:

• South African Laws: Including POPI Act, Cybercrimes Act, and education legislation
• International Laws: When applicable to cross-border activities
• Intellectual Property: Copyright, trademark, and patent laws
• Privacy Regulations: Data protection and privacy requirements

Reporting Illegal Activity

Suspected illegal activities must be reported to:

• Local law enforcement authorities
• eduSYMS security team
• Relevant regulatory bodies
• School administration

10. Policy Updates and Communication

Regular Reviews

This policy is reviewed and updated:

• Annually or as needed based on legal changes
• Following significant security incidents
• When new features or services are introduced
• Based on user feedback and concerns

Change Notifications

Policy updates will be communicated through:

• Platform notifications and announcements
• Email notifications to all users
• School communications and newsletters
• Training sessions and workshops

Acceptance

Continued use of eduSYMS services constitutes acceptance of this policy and any updates.