Eight Simple Rules for Computer Usage

1. Treat the computer as if it was yours--with respect.

• Do not write on the computer.

• Treat the computer gently and do not hit or pound the keyboard.

• Always leave the equipment as you found it by leaving the chair pushed back under the table, replacing the earphones, and putting away any disk that you may have used.

2. Don't tell anyone your password.  It is your key to the computer system and your network resources.

• Try to choose a password that is hard to guess by using both letters and numbers and having it contain 6 to 8 characters.

• If you must write your password down to remember it, be sure to keep it in a place where nobody will able to find it.

3. Use the Internet in a responsible manner--as an educational resource.

• Never visit sites that have content or use language that you, your classmates, your teachers, or parents would find offensive.  If you find yourself in a site like this, BACK out immediately.

• When writing e-mail or creating web sites, use language that is appropriate and never include material that will offend or hurt somebody else.

5. Never be afraid to ask for help with a computer program.

• It is better to ask for help than to get frustrated with the computer and not to finish your homework.  Your teacher is always glad to help you out.

6. Be careful around the computer equipment.

• Never have food or drink near the computers.  You never know when you are going to have a spill.

• Never horseplay near a computer.  It is very easy to accidentally bump and damage a computer, and it is very expensive to repair a broken computer.

7. Follow all Internet guidelines for the machine that you are using.

• Use the computer and Internet only for what you have been allowed.

• Follow classroom rules on games, and use the computers for school-related activities only.

• Do not use the computer to prevent someone else from enjoying the Internet.

8. Have fun and be safe.

• If you ever find something that makes you uncomfortable, tell your parents or teacher immediately.

• Always check with your parents before giving out personal information about yourself.

• Never agree to meet with somebody that you only know from on-line without the supervision of your parents.

Created on March 5th, 2001.
Please direct questions and comments to:  Webmaster.

The content for this web page is based on a student handout on computer ethics by from Southwest Virginia Governor's school and is maintained by John Wenrich.