Social Networking Sites

Small Group Activity

Socialware Tutorial
HICSS 2007

Social Networking Sites and University

Policy
After a series of embarrassing incidents
the Board of Trustees of State U. have
asked you to form a task force to address
problems related to the use of Facebook,
MySpace, and other Social Networking
Sites
Your task is to consider what actions can
be taken to reduce these incidents

Problems to Address
Graduating senior lose job offers after employers see compromising
photos on social networking sites. An editorial in the student
newspaper describes the use of social networking sites by
employers to investigate applicants as unethical and illegal.
Students have complained that Safety Office uses Social
Networking Sites to spy on them and shut down parties.
The Athletic Director has requested that all athletes be banned from
using Social Networking Sites.
The Dean of Students must handle numerous complaints regarding
insulting and potential libelous photos and comments posted about
other students.
Several stalking incidents appear related to information posted on
victims profile regarding their class schedule and dorm location.

What do you recommend?

Outline a response and/or policy changes
that address the following:
Describe conduct policy and/or
recommendations for students
Address use of profiles by potential employers
and school safety officers
Identify safety guidelines regarding stalking
Define standards of civility towards other
members of the school community, including
students, faculty and staff

Resources
Thoughts on Facebook, Cornell U.
Division of IT
Facebook Not For Employers, Stanford
Student Newspaper
Social networking safety tips, OnGuard
Online (Federal govt. site)
Kent State Bans Facebook for Athletes
Scenes From the MySpace Backlash,
Wired News