Staff Writer
Wake County is proposing a technology policy change that
would restrict access to students’ cameras on their devices. The revision
states it will prohibit students “from taking pictures of videos with any
device unless directed by a teacher.”
The proposal would become a part of the inappropriate use of
technology section that warns against posting or sending any inappropriate or
offensive material. An example of this might be a video of a physical fight.
“The hardest thing about it is it would be very, very
difficult to enforce,” said Principal Mathew Wight. “In addition, I think that
student photos have been a great way to show what’s going on in school, so I’d
hate if we lost that opportunity.”
Administrators believe the policy needs to be updated, with
the extent to which technology has changed since the 2010 revision. They’re
also considering the bring-your-own-device (BOYD) program that will allow 13
schools within Wake County to use their smartphones, tablets, and laptops in
school due to the limited technology resources. If successful, the county will discuss
expanding the program to all 171 schools.
Another proposal, about parent consent with technology, was
brought up by Deborah Stagner, a board attorney. Phone use has been found to be
as beneficial as it is detrimental in a classroom. Board members are nervous
about taking away opportunities that students have with their devices, due to
their parents forgetting to fill out a consent form. To avoid this problem, the
county plans to double check with parents who did not sign.
