Case
Computer Misuse

I am fortunate to have computers at each of the lab stations in the back of my science classroom, so I often have students use the machines to collect, graph, and analyze data. When straightening up the lab area at the end of the day, I noticed some eye-catching graphics on one of the computer screens, and used the history function on the computer's internet browser to confirm that the computer has been used to visit inappropriate websites.What should I do?

Solution #1
I would make sure that the monitors are not facing a wall, this way I can see what is on the screen. I would also suggest to constantly walk around the room and check as to what is being looked up in the computers. I would talk to the students about what is appropriate to look up while in the classroom and enforce consequences (such as not letting that student use the computer) for those who still look up inappropriate websites.

I agree, letting them know you are watching what they are doing will make them not want to surf especially when they know the consequences.

Solution #2
I would walk around while students are using the computers to monitor their work. Also assign work for them to do while on the computers.
Solution #3
I would take away student computer privileges and review the rules and procedures that go with using the computers. If I knew what student specifically was looking at the inappropriate material, I would send a note home to their parents.
Solution #4
I would print out what ever evidence I could. Then I would have a talk with the student and inform them that I would be calling home and telling his parents. Also I would tell him that he would not be able to use the computer for one week. I would explain that if it happens again that he will lose computer privilages for one month, with alternitive assignments and that he would be writen up.
Solution #5
For a short period of time I would ban the computers to send a message to the students that what they were doing is inappropriate. I would also have each student sign a contract that if they are caught looking at these websites, there will be serious consequences. After you reinstate their computer time you should monitor the computers very closely. Have each student sign a log before they begin use on the computer and after they are done and check the history each time. When they see you mean business they will be less likely to continue this behavior.
Solution #6
To avoid this problem I would arrange the computer screen so that I am able to see the screen from anywhere in the classroom.
Solution #7
I would bring up the situation to the front of the class the next day. Talk to the students and explain to them how fortuante they are to be able to use this computer lab but that if they do anything inappropriate again, that they won't be able to use the computers anymore.
Solution #8
First, you should state the rules and procedures when handling the computers at the beginning of the year. Examples of inappropriate usage is needed. I would keep a written log or require a computer login every time students use the computers. It seems that you do not know which student has accessed the inappropriate sites. I would have a class discussion about the consequences (such as no computer use, detention, etc.) and then establish the log. If this continues I would take away the computer privilege from the students who mistreat the computers.
Solution #9
I have actually had this happen in one of my internships. The student had been caught a couple times looking at inappropriate pictures on the computers. He had previously been warned and teachers were told to keep a look out. The last straw was when a teacher actually caught the student in the act and he was sent to the office right away. Since that incident he was not to have use on the computer at all and if he absolutely needed to use it, he was to have a teacher or assistant sit with him the entire time he was on it.
Solution #10
Report the incident to the administration and then speak with the technology personnel to install a software to restrict certain websites.
Solution #11
Computers are a big trust between students and teachers. From the first day you should go over procedures with your students and let them know it is for school use only. These rules and procedures should be placed on the desks of the computers or in sight while using the computers as well as the consequences. No too mention the computers should be facing the public and not against the wall so I can see the screens at any given point and the students will know this.
Solution #12
I would discuss this issue with the class the next day they come into the lab. You will explain that there has been inappropriate use of the computers and until further notice, no student will be using the computers. Have the students graph with pencil and paper instead for as long as it takes. Once the students are back on the computers, I would then assign each student a computer. Each computer will have a number, and each student will be assigned to a numbered computer. In doing this, you know exactly which student is on the computer and you would be able to pin point which student is using the computers inappropriately if they decide to do so again.
Solution #13
Before the students are able to have use of any school computers, they will have to sign a contract and there will be a parent signature required. If there is nay inappropriate behavior the students will be warned first and anything after the first warning the student needs to know they risk losing their computer time.
Solution #14
Since you have no proof as to whom exactly went on these websites, you will just have to change your approach to monitoring students computer use in the future. One suggestion is that you can keep a sign-in sheet for each computer, so you can keep track of who has used the computer. Since you are changing up your approach you can give a students a reminder as to what the rules of using the computer are when introducing the new approach.
Solution #15
If I were you, I would create a set of guidelines and procedures for the computer lab and I would also walk around the room while students are working on the computer. Try to figure out who looked up the inappropriate content and talk with them privately. Get parents and administration involved if needed because it is a serious issue. Other students may have seen the content as well and it is the teacher's responsibility to make sure they are safe and do not see or experience anything that would make them uncomfortable.