Computer and Network Acceptable Use Policy
Summary
Pacifica is committed to providing those facilities, faculty, curricula, resources, and administrative personnel that facilitate the free exchange of ideas. The school is dedicated to creating an academic environment that fosters the willing and enthusiastic participation of those individuals and groups who compose its community. At the same time, the school must protect itself from the legal, academic, and personal ramifications ensuing from the misuse of its computer and network resources. Thus, the school has placed reasonable limits on the use of its computing and network resources. Any policies contained herein are intended to preserve a learning environment characterized by mutual respect and the exchange of intellectual thoughts.
Pacifica grants access to its networks and computer systems with the responsibilities and obligations described below, and is subject to all local, state, and federal laws. The school reserves the right to access electronic communication or data (e.g. – e-mail, computer files) stored and transmitted over Pacifica’s technological resources.
Pacifica’s Computer and Network Resource Acceptable Use Policy applies to all staff, students, faculty and visitors, whether affiliated with Pacifica or not, receiving and/or using computing and network resources on campus or remotely. It is generally assumed that a basic knowledge of computer skill and proficiency is required to use the school’s computing resources. By using all such resources, all persons are bounded by the policies contained herein.
Additional policies may apply to specific computer systems, degree programs and/or networks provided and operated by individual departments. For further information, interested parties should consult the operators or managers of the specific computer, computer system, or network, in which they are concerned.
Pacifica employs various measures to protect the security and privacy of its computing environment as described in Pacifica’s Information Security Plan. The school cannot guarantee the security of all computers and networks accessed by nodes from within or outside Pacifica’s network or computer systems. Therefore, it is the responsibility of all individuals who use Pacifica’s technical resources to engage in “safe computing” practices by establishing appropriate computer access restrictions and safeguarding their usernames and passwords. Additionally, it is necessary that all computing devices be equipped with anti-virus software and be running the most recent updates before connecting to Pacifica’s networks and/or computers.
It should also be noted that Pacifica’s networking and computing resources are not private. While Pacifica does not routinely monitor individual usage of its computing resources, the normal operation and maintenance of Pacifica’s computing resources require the backup, the logging, and the monitoring of general usage and access patterns necessary for the remediation of service that will capture such data.
Pacifica allows individual user access when such person is authorized to use Pacifica resources, and the use of any computing resources is bounded by the manner in which that the authorized access is intended. Computer users who engage in electronic communications with persons in other states or countries or on other systems or networks should be aware that they may also be subject to the laws of other states and countries and the rules and policies of other systems and networks. Computer users are responsible for ascertaining, understanding, and complying with the laws, rules, policies, contracts, and licenses applicable to their particular uses.
Pacifica, on its own discretion, may disclose the results of any such general or individual monitoring, including the contents and records of individual communications, to appropriate Pacifica personnel or law enforcement agencies and may use those results in appropriate Pacifica disciplinary or legal proceedings.
Pacifica’s web site contains information for and about Pacifica’s community and is a major means of communication, publication, and collaboration in support of the mission of the school. The school maintains the right to temporarily disable access to any web page. Pacifica is not responsible for the content of individual home pages, links from these pages, or material accessed via those links.
Netiquette, defined as Internet etiquette, is necessary if Pacifica’s community is to foster relationships characterized by mutual respect, caring, and support for learning. Students engaged in web based coursework or communication shall abide by the following guidelines and policies:
- Always remember that students, staff and faculty are real people.
- Don’t say anything to students, staff and/or faculty online that wouldn’t be said face-to-face.
- Present feedback in a constructive and sensitive manner.
- Use private correspondence to discuss sensitive or detailed issues.
- Use communications to convey good will, to encourage response, and to enhance relationships.
Pacifica takes reasonable and necessary steps to preserve the security of its computer and network resources. Doing so maintains a respectful community in which our computing and information resources may be utilized as intended. Resource users are expected to maintain this community by abiding by the school’s policies and reporting violations immediately. Potential policy violations should be reported to the Pacifica Information Technology Department, at 805-679-6199 or by e-mail at itsupport@pacifica.edu.
A full transcript of the Pacifica Computer and Network Use Policy can be obtained by contacting the Pacifica Information Technology Department.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does this policy mean that I can’t download copyrighted audio or video programs?
Ninety nine point nine percent of the time the answer is Yes. The unlawful use or distribution of copyrighted works provides the basis for civil litigation and criminal prosecution as well as disciplinary action by Pacifica. “Fair use” of such material for legitimate educational purposes, however, may be permissible, but should never be assumed.
2. What are the possible consequences of violating the Computer and Network Acceptable Use Policy?
Some of the possible consequences include:
- Temporary deactivation of Pacifica’s technology resource access;
- Permanent deactivation of Pacifica’s technology resource access;
- Disciplinary actions taken by the appropriate institutional department;
- Expulsion from the school or termination of employment; and
- Prosecution under applicable federal, state, or local laws.
3. What will Pacifica do to protect my operating system from viruses?
Pacifica’s Information Technology (IT) works diligently to block system and network access to viruses and to secure Pacifica’s centralized servers. However, individual users are responsible for maintaining their operating systems and other computer software with available software vendor updates and virus protection programs. All stakeholders must take personal responsibility and a proactive role in keeping their systems “up-to-date.”
4. Is Pacifica responsible for my computer’s anti-virus protection?
All personally-owned computers are the sole responsibility of the owner. Ensuring installation of anti-virus software and appropriate updates for personal computers is the responsibility of the individual users.
Pacifica will provide anti-virus programs for school owned resources. This includes ensuring the installation of anti-virus software and maintaining the software by updating it as necessary.
5. Is Pacifica’s technical staff required to provide network connectivity?
Technical staff is not required to assist users in connecting personally owned computers to the network. Their assistance may be provided as a courtesy.
6. What does “personal use” include? When “personal use” crosses the line from permitted to prohibit?
Personal use includes any use that is not institutionally related to Pacifica’s positions of faculty, staff, student or visitor. Use of Pacifica’s technology resources for personal commercial purposes, for personal financial gain, or other personal reasons are generally improper and, under some circumstances, may be illegal. In general, personal use should meet the following criteria:
- It must not consume a significant amount of technology resources;
- It must not interfere with the performance of Pacifica’s responsibilities;
- It is not made for personal commercial or financial gain; and
- It is otherwise in compliance with applicable laws, rules, policies, agreements, and licenses.
7. Are my communications across Pacifica’s computer and network resources private?
Users should be aware that the use of Pacifica’s computing resources are not private. While Pacifica does not routinely monitor individual usage of its computing resources, the normal operation and maintenance of Pacifica’s computing resources require the backup, the logging of activity, the monitoring of general and individual usage patterns, and other such activities that are necessary for the rendition of service.
Pacifica, at its discretion, may disclose the results of any such general or individual monitoring, including the contents and records of individual communications, to appropriate school personnel and/or law enforcement agencies and may use those results in appropriate disciplinary actions outlined in Pacifica’s conduct policies.
8. How can I ensure that my documents are compatible from one computer to another?
Due to the requirements and limitations of diverse computing and software environments, Pacifica has standardized on the Microsoft Office Suite to assure document compatibility across a variety of operating platforms.
Purpose
The Pacifica Graduate Institute (“Pacifica”) provides computing and networking resources to the greater Pacifica community. The purpose of the Computer and Network Resource Acceptable Use Policy is to further the school’s commitment to scholarship, instruction, research, and service by using the full spectrum of available technical resources. The use of these resources is a privilege that is granted to members of the community so that they may work and learn in an environment that is supportive of education and service. The use of the school’s technology, like the use of any other resource, is subject to the normative industry requirements of legal and ethical behavior. Thus, the legitimate use of computer and network systems does not extend to whatever is technically possible. Although some limitations are built into computer operating systems and networks, those limitations are not the sole restrictions of what is permissible. Users must abide by all restrictions, even if such restrictions can be circumvented via a technical means.
Pacifica takes reasonable and necessary steps to preserve the security of its computer and network resources. Doing so maintains a respectful community in which our computing and information resources may be utilized as intended. Resource users are expected to maintain this community by abiding by the school’s policies and reporting violations immediately. Potential policy violations should be reported to the Pacifica Information Technology Department, at 805-679-6199 or by e-mail at itsupport@pacifica.edu.
Pacifica grants access to its networks and computer systems with the responsibilities and obligations described below, and is subject to all local, state, and federal laws. The school reserves the right to access electronic communication or data (e.g. – e-mail, computer files) stored and transmitted over Pacifica’s technological resources.
Academic Freedom and Computer Use:
Pacifica is committed to providing those facilities, faculty, curricula, resources, and administrative personnel that facilitate the free exchange of ideas. The school is dedicated to creating an academic environment that fosters the willing and enthusiastic participation of those individuals and groups who compose its community. At the same time, the school must protect itself from the legal, academic, and personal ramifications ensuing from the misuse of its computer and network resources. Thus, the school has placed reasonable limits on the use of its computing and network resources. Any policies contained herein are intended to preserve a learning environment characterized by mutual respect and the exchange of intellectual thoughts.
Audience and Agreement:
Pacifica’s Computer and Network Resource Acceptable Use Policy applies to all staff, students, faculty and visitors, whether affiliated with Pacifica or not, receiving and/or using computing and network resources on campus or remotely. It is generally assumed that a basic knowledge of computer skill and proficiency is required to use the school’s computing resources. By using all such resources, all persons are bounded by the policies contained herein.
Additional policies may apply to specific computer systems, degree programs and/or networks provided and operated by individual departments. For further information, interested parties should consult the operators or managers of the specific computer, computer system, or network, in which they are concerned.
Web Policy Statement:
Pacifica’s web site contains information for and about Pacifica’s community and is a major means of communication, publication, and collaboration in support of the mission of the school. The school maintains the right to temporarily disable access to any web page.
Any member of Pacifica’s community posting information on the web must abide by U.S. and international copyright and licensing laws.
- Copyrighted material reproduced on the web site must have prior written permission of the copyright holder.
- All published information will include identification of the owner, date modified or created, and contact information.
- Commercial use of Pacifica’s web pages is prohibited.
- Owner(s) of published information are responsible for the accuracy and maintenance of content.
Pacifica is not responsible for the content of individual home pages, links from these pages, or material accessed via those links.
Network Use Policy Statement:
The Network Use Policy applies to all persons connecting personal or institutional computer systems to Pacifica’s computing network.
The Pacifica network includes shared, finite resources installed by the school’s administrators to promote scholarship and learning for all students. Disruption of the network will deprive others of access to essential learning resources.
Computer Use Policy Statement:
Pacifica’s students, faculty, staff and visitors are responsible for the legal and ethical use of computers connected to Pacifica’s network. The school primarily provides computing resources to support its instruction, research, and service missions; administrative functions; student and campus life activities; and the free exchange of ideas among members of Pacifica’s global community.
Pacifica allows individual user access when such person is authorized to use Pacifica resources, and the use of any computing resources is bounded by the manner in which that the authorized access is intended. Computer users who engage in electronic communications with persons in other states or countries or on other systems or networks should be aware that they may also be subject to the laws of other states and countries and the rules and policies of other systems and networks. Computer users are responsible for ascertaining, understanding, and complying with the laws, rules, policies, contracts, and licenses applicable to their particular uses.
Activities considered to be in conflict with the school’s policy include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Spreading viruses or causing disruptions on networks.
- Unauthorized access to restricted or personal computers, data, or programs or knowing use of restricted computers, data or programs accessed or acquired by someone else.
- Ability to access other persons’ accounts does not, by itself, imply authorization to do so.
- Computing resource users are responsible for ascertaining what authorizations are necessary and for obtaining them before proceeding.
- Sharing a password(s) or account(s).
- Account holders are responsible and will be held accountable for all activity occurring on their accounts.
- Creating, modifying, executing or re-transmitting any computer program or instructions intended to gain unauthorized access to, or make unauthorized use of, any computer facilities or software.
- Violating copyright laws or software license agreements.
- Installing software, including freeware, shareware, public domain or commercial software on any Pacifica-owned computer equipment without appropriate authority.
- Using computers or networks with the intent to compromise any other computers or networks or to commit crimes or other unethical acts.
- The Electronic Communications Privacy Act and the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act – which prohibit “hacking,” “cracking,” and similar activities.
- Using computers or networks for unauthorized commercial or for-profit activity.
- Sending or forwarding electronic mail for unauthorized purposes (i.e.- SPAM).
- This includes but is not limited to unsolicited and unsanctioned mass mailings.
- The Executive Management Team is the only official body authorized to approve and send mass electronic mailings on behalf of Pacifica.
- Viewing, printing, storage, display, or playing of sounds of any sexually explicit or potentially offensive materials in a way that may create an offensive working or learning environment.
- Excessive use of paper, toner, disk space, or other resources.
- Monopolizing systems so that others are prevented from use.
- Overloading computers or networks with excessive data.
- Using email or other electronic methods for purposes of harassment or stalking.
- Activities which violate local, state, or federal laws.
- Removing any Pacifica owned computer software or hardware from campus without written permission of the appropriate administrator.
Responsibilities for Personal and Pacifica Owned Computers:
- Maintain a valid, regularly updated anti-virus program (i.e.- Norton Anti-Virus, Symantec Anti-Virus, McAfee Anti-Virus).
- Maintain an updated version of all Operating Systems and Applications provided by software vendors.
- Maintain effective security practices on computer systems to avoid intentional or unintentional activities from or to any network connection. Included, but not limited to, are attempts to monitor other network connections, hijack connections, spread viruses, spyware, or any other activity which may impact the overall security of the network.
Guidelines for Responsible Usage:
While the following list is not exhaustive, Pacifica suggests that all community members adopt the following computing guidelines when accessing its resources.
- General
- Make copies of important computer files on a regular basis.
- Save all original computer software disks in a safe place.
- Refrain from libel, slander, intimidation, and harassment.
- Refrain from saturating technology resources with voluminous traffic, such as mass e-mails or malevolent activities, to the exclusion of another’s use.
- Pacifica’s networks, computer labs, and e-mail and telephone systems are universally limited and broadly shared.
- Refrain from stating or implying representation of Pacifica or using Pacifica’s trademarks without authorization to do so.
- Affiliation with Pacifica does not, by itself, imply authorization to speak on behalf of Pacifica.
- Authorization to use Pacifica’s trademarks and logos on Pacifica’s computing resources may be granted only as appropriate.
- The use of suitable disclaimers is encouraged.
- Laws and Regulations
- Abide by all local, state and federal laws.
- Adhere to all copyright and trademark laws.
- The unlawful distribution of copyrighted works can provide the basis for civil litigation and criminal prosecution.
- Comply with all product licensing and contractual agreements.
- Security
- Refrain from using technology privileges that are no longer authorized after graduation, transfer to another institutional role, or employment separation.
- Secure voice, computer, and network accounts with unique passwords that change regularly and do not share with anyone.
- Keep all computer operating systems and other application software “up-to-date” with manufacturer patches and updates.
- Use virus protection software that is updated regularly to detect the latest types of Trojans and viruses.
- Do not violate the security of any technology resource at Pacifica or anywhere on the Internet.
- Sharing Resources
- Refrain from using peer-to-peer file sharing utilities (i.e.- iTunes, LimeWire, Kazaa, iMesh, Morpheus, Sharaza or BitTorrent) to unlawfully download or share copyrighted material for which copyright permission has not been granted.
- Encrypt or password protect all confidential or sensitive material transported via public networks (i.e.- Wi-Fi, Internet).
- Respect the finite capacity of technology resources and limit use so as not to consume an unreasonable amount of those resources or interfere unreasonably with the activity of other users.
- E-mail
- Official correspondence between Pacifica faculty, staff and students should be communicated using the Institution’s e-mail systems and resources.
- Submit e-mail messages directed at a large number of faculty, staff, or students to the Executive Management Team for review, approval and forwarding.
- Keep mailbox size to a minimum by deleting all unnecessary messages and storing other messages outside the mailbox.
- Refrain from the use of odious communications, such as obscenity, profanity, and inappropriate jokes.
- Other Uses of Technology Resources
- Wireless networking is reserved for classroom and “mobile” computing needs.
- It is not intended as the primary means for connecting to the institution’s internal network.
- Do not use Pacifica’s resources for personal financial gain without expressed written consent.
- Limit the use of Pacifica’s technology unrelated to academic or administrative needs.
- Wireless networking is reserved for classroom and “mobile” computing needs.
- Privacy and Confidentiality
- Respect the privacy and personal rights of others.
- Do not access or copy another user’s e-mail, data, computer software, or other files without permission.
Netiquette:
Netiquette, defined as Internet etiquette, is necessary if Pacifica’s community is to foster relationships characterized by mutual respect, caring, and support for learning. Students engaged in web based coursework or communication shall abide by the following guidelines and policies:
- Always remember that students, staff and faculty are real people.
- Don’t say anything to students, staff and/or faculty online that wouldn’t be said face-to-face.
- Present feedback in a constructive and sensitive manner.
- Use private correspondence to discuss sensitive or detailed issues.
- Use communications to convey good will, to encourage response, and to enhance relationships.
ListServ Groups, Usenet and Mailing Lists:
Please be considerate of Pacifica’s faculty, staff and students by restricting e-mail and web-based correspondence with these parties to course-specific, academic, or other Pacifica related issues.
Discussion Groups & Chat Rooms:
Personal Misrepresentation – Using school owned technology to mislead a person romantically or financially or to lure children and other individuals for the purpose of harming them are strict violations of netiquette, punishable by law and may be subject to academic reprimand by or dismissal outlined in Pacifica’s conduct policies.
Flaming – The school wishes to encourage lively debate and an environment of academic freedom. At the same time, the school wishes to foster a learning environment characterized by mutual respect with regards to race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, and nationality. For this reason, discussion posts that intentionally target a specific individual or group for the purpose of initiating controversy (flames) are prohibited. Individuals who engage in flame wars that target individuals or groups may be subject to reprimand by individual faculty members and other school personnel outlined in Pacifica’s conduct policies.
Electronic hoaxes and rumors – It is the policy of the school to prohibit the use of school affiliated resources to spread hoaxes or rumors. Students who engage in this activity are subject to academic probation or dismissal from Pacifica’s academic programs outlined in Pacifica’s conduct policies.
Information Retrieval:
The basic issue with information retrieval and the Internet is to be considerate of other people’s time. Electronic files that are available on the Internet or through file transfer mechanisms should be downloaded onto the desktop and then opened for review of the contents. Opening and reviewing such documents online ties up Internet connections and denies others access to information. Other things to remember when downloading files are downloading during low “traffic hours” (usually before 8 AM and after 5 PM), following time limits posted by archive sites, and obtaining copyright permission before downloading and duplicating web-based materials.
Copyright:
When using and duplicating Internet-based sources for academic research or personal enrichment, adhere to the fair use and copyright policies outlined on the Internet resources and Pacifica’s citing and integrity policies. Cite sources in accordance with the guidelines established by the American Psychology Association.
Computer Use Requirements:
A functional knowledge and access to computer terminals is required to communicate and complete institutional work and coursework. Personal computer hardware, software and an Internet connection are requirements to participate in Pacifica’s academic programs. Please refer to Pacifica’s Computer Requirements Table for technical recommendations intended to enhance the learning experience and ensure the most trouble-free use of the school’s online resources.
Pacifica highly recommends a broadband (cable modem, DSL or T1) connection. While not required, subscribing to a broadband connection is the most important investment an individual can make to improve his/her personal home computing experience.
My.Pacifica Student Websites
The Pacifica Information Technology Department offers computer labs, Wi-Fi and My.Pacifica self service and e-mail accounts to all active students. The technology systems are designed to facilitate efficient, timely communication and notification within the academic community. In addition, some of the academic programs provide an online based curriculum that is supported by the school’s distance learning management system, which is referred to as My.Pacifica E-Learning. The following are the links to the Institute’s My.Pacifica offerings:
- http://www.my.pacifica.edu
- My.Pacifica Student Self Services Website (Registration, Address Changes, Transcripts, Account Balances)
- http://email.my.pacifica.edu
- My.Pacifica E-mail Website
- http://elearning.my.pacifica.edu
- My.Pacifica E-Learning Website (Desire2Learn online learning environment)
- http://finaid.my.pacifica.edu
- My.Pacifica Financial Aid Website
Note: The My.Pacifica systems are disparate and isolated. The systems do not actively synchronize username or password information. Thusly, a password change on one system does not translate into a password change on remaining My.Pacifica systems.
For technical support with the My.Pacifica systems please contact the Pacifica Information Technology Department, at 805-679-6199 or by e-mail at itsupport@pacifica.edu.
My.Pacifica Student Services Website – The Student Services website provides the student community access to unofficial transcripts, online address change and official transcript forms, class registration services and account balances.
My.Pacifica E-mail Website – The web based e-mail system provides all students with a universal and cross functional operating system accessible electronic mail to facilitate an efficient medium of active communication. The school uses the My.Pacifica issued e-mail accounts for all official student correspondence by faculty, staff and students.
My.Pacifica e-mail offers several advantages:
- Enhanced security and reliability for electronic mail correspondence.
- Access to e-mail anywhere a supported browser has access to the Internet (Work, Home, Internet kiosk, etc.).
- SPAM filtering and tagging.
The system requires that students log into their account at least once every 90 days. After 90 days of e-mail account inactivity, the My.Pacifica e-mail system will begin automatically deleting any e-mail’s that are older than 90 days. It is imperative that all students check their My.Pacifica e-mail accounts to prevent any automated e-mail deletions. It is every student’s responsibility to frequently monitor correspondence to their My.Pacifica e-mail account.
My.Pacifica E-Learning Website (Desire2Learn) – The Learning Management System is referred to as My.Pacifica E-Learning. Academic programs have access to online course work that adds supplementary value and relevance to the school’s academic course work. The E-Learning system is supported by the Desire2Learn distance learning academic community.
Password Change Statement
The Pacifica IT department can be contacted at 805-679-6199 or by e-mail at itsupport@pacifica.edu for password resets. The school will require students to provide IT support personnel with their student identification number, located on the upper left hand corner of the student identification card, issued to first year students. If an identification number cannot be provided to IT support personnel, students must fill out the Password Reset Request Form located at either the Pacifica IT or Registrar department homepages and fax it to 805-565-3804.
Security and Privacy:
Pacifica employs various measures to protect the security and privacy of its computing environment as described in Pacifica’s Information Security Plan. The school cannot guarantee the security of all computers and networks accessed by nodes from within or outside Pacifica’s network or computer systems. Therefore, it is the responsibility of all individuals who use Pacifica’s technical resources to engage in “safe computing” practices by establishing appropriate computer access restrictions and safeguarding their usernames and passwords. Additionally, it is necessary that all computing devices be equipped with anti-virus software and be running the most recent updates before connecting to Pacifica’s networks and/or computers.
It should also be noted that Pacifica’s networking and computing resources are not private. While Pacifica does not routinely monitor individual usage of its computing resources, the normal operation and maintenance of Pacifica’s computing resources require the backup, the logging, and the monitoring of general usage and access patterns necessary for the remediation of service that will capture such data.
Pacifica, on its own discretion, may disclose the results of any such general or individual monitoring, including the contents and records of individual communications, to appropriate Pacifica personnel or law enforcement agencies and may use those results in appropriate Pacifica disciplinary or legal proceedings.
Enforcement:
If it is deemed that there is an abuse of the Computer and Network Resource Acceptable Use Policy, the concerned parties will be subject to the denial of access to Pacifica’s computing resources and may be subject to other penalties and/or disciplinary action, both within and outside the jurisdiction of the school. However, violations will normally be handled through the procedures outlined in Pacifica’s conduct policies.
Additionally, Pacifica may temporarily suspend or block access to computing resources, prior to the initiation or completion of any investigation when Pacifica determines that it is reasonably necessary to do so in order to protect the integrity, security, or functionality of Pacifica; or, to protect Pacifica from any liability. Consequently, Pacifica may also refer suspected violations to appropriate law enforcement agencies if any situation warrants such action.
Continuing Evaluation and Adjustment:
The Computer and Network Acceptable Use Policy and its associated plan shall be evaluated and revised in response to relevant circumstances, changes in the law, business practice changes, and testing and assessment of security safeguards.