Guidelines for Use of Social Media
General Statement Regarding Social Media
Many students use various forms of social media, including but not limited to wikis, blogs, listserves, fora, websites, and social networking sites. Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter are specific and frequently-used examples of these media. When using social media, students are expected to act with courtesy and respect toward others.
Regardless of where or when they make use of these media, students are responsible for the content they post or promote. Students may be subject to action by the University for posting or promoting content that substantially disrupts or materially interferes with University activities or that might lead University authorities to reasonably foresee substantial disruption or material interference with University activities. This action may be taken based on behavioral misconduct, academic performance, academic misconduct, or professional misconduct, and may range from a reprimand or failing grade to dismissal from a program or the University.
Prior to taking any action against a student based on this policy, departments are asked to consult with the Office of General Counsel (801.585.7002).
Guidelines for Use of Social Media
Use of social media is prevalent among students. Students should be aware that unwise or inappropriate use of social media can negatively impact educational and career opportunities. To avoid these negative impacts, students should consider the following:
- Post content that reflects positively on you and the University. Be aware not only of the content that you post, but of any content that you host (e.g., comments posted by others on your site). Content you host can have the same effect as content you post.
- Though you may only intend a small group to see what you post, a much larger group may actually see your post. Be aware that your statements may be offensive to others, including classmates or faculty members who may read what you post.
- Employers and others may use social media to evaluate applicants. Choosing to post distasteful, immature, or offensive content may eliminate job or other opportunities.
- Once you have posted something via social media, it is out of your control. Others may see it, repost it, save it, forward it to others, etc. Retracting content after you have posted it is practically impossible.
- If you post content concerning the University, make it clear that you do not represent the University and that the content you are posting does not represent the views of the University.
- Make sure the content you post is in harmony with the ethical or other codes of your program and field. In certain circumstances, your program may have made these codes binding on you, and violations may result in action against you.
- If you are in a program that involves confidential information, do not disclose this information. The University may take action against you for disclosures of confidential information.
- Realize that you may be subject to action by the University for posting or promoting content that substantially disrupts or materially interferes with University activities or that might lead University authorities to reasonably foresee substantial disruption or material interference with University activities. This action may be taken based on behavioral misconduct, academic performance, academic misconduct, or professional misconduct, and may range from a reprimand or failing grade to dismissal from a program of the University.