Student Use of Online Communication and Community Building Tools
The proliferation of online communication tools such as myspace.com, facebook.com, and blogs continues to transform the ways in which we communicate and develop community. We acknowledge these media as appropriate ways to share information. However, while there are many positives, there are also some concerns and cautions for students. Our desire is to provide guidance for students as you engage in these forms of communication.
It is important for students to be wise and cautious when posting personal information on the Internet. At a minimum, we encourage all students to do the following:
1. Avoid posting residential address information.
2. Do not post your phone number(s).
3. Be discerning with the information you do post.
4. Understand that any information you post may be viewed by anyone with Internet access.
Please understand that information you post may be subject to legal action, affect current or future employment, or be subject to identity theft. It can also open up opportunities for stalking and other inappropriate behaviors.
It is important to understand that what you post online does not only represent you. Many sites indicate you are a student at George Fox University. As you know, being a member of this community means there is a significant responsibility to represent the University in a Christ-like manner, as well as to uphold the values and mission of the institution.
All content posted should adhere to the lifestyle standards and community expectations. Students are encouraged to use these guidelines, as well as the Computer Use Policy and the Discernment Policy in their decision making process. Since students have editing control over pages, our expectation is that you would review and remove questionable content.
The university considers all students responsible for comments posted on their own blogs, site, wall, etc., as well as what you may post on pages of other GFU students. If there is inappropriate material posted on your sites by other people, the university expects you to remove these items.
It is not the intent of the university to monitor what students place on these sites. However, we will respond to issues that are brought to our attention. If inappropriate information, content, or pictures are found on your myspace.com, facebook.com, blogs, or other such sites, you may be held accountable with appropriate consequences. As with all policies, the university encourages students to hold one another accountable.
If you have questions about what may or may not be appropriate, please feel free to contact the student life office or residence life staff.