SHOKEI GAKUIN UNIVERSITY

1. Objective

This document establishes the basic general rules and precautions for the Shokei Gakuin University students’ proper and proactive use of social media, based on the SGU Social Media Operation Policy, to ensure that they do not become embroiled in trouble as a result of their use of social media.

2. What is Social Media?

1. Social media refers to media such as Facebook, Twitter, LINE, YouTube in which any person can use web-based services to broadcast information via information tools or to interact with others.
2. This document covers social media use, posting, etc. by students from accounts that clearly identify the university name, as well as from personal accounts, organization accounts, or anonymous accounts that do not make such a clear identification.

3. Basic Important Points and Etiquette of Social Media Use

When used properly, social media has tremendous benefits for the transmission of information and interactive communication and will enrich students’ lives at university. However, there are growing risks that using social media in the wrong way will cause complications with interpersonal relationships and problems that could have a serious social impact. To protect yourself and to avoid causing harm to others, exercise care regarding the points below when posting information or communicating on social media. Also, as stated in the SGU Student Discipline Rules, any fraudulent or inappropriate use of PCs or networks will be subject to discipline by the university.

• Be conscious of the fact that you are a student or organization that belongs to SGU and post online responsibly.
• Comply with all laws and regulations and with the University Rules, etc.
• Do not infringe on the rights of other users, including copyright.
• Exercise due care when handling personal information and do not post another person’s information without the consent of that person.
• Do not impersonate others, that is, using the name of another person or organization falsely.
• Do not defame any individual or organization or cause harm to others’ credibility or reputation.

Never forget that there is another person on the other side.

It can be easy to forget when facing a computer screen, but there is also another person on the other side of that screen. Remember that the person on the other side of the screen can also enlighten you. Posting information or making statements that are beneficial to both parties will allow both parties to enjoy the advantages of social media. As students of SGU, think first about how you can contribute to others through your own participation.

Do not post or share unverified information without thought.

The Internet is awash with information whose veracity is not clear. Instead of accepting what you read and see without questioning, obtain information from multiple sources and develop the ability to be discerning about information. This ability is known as media literacy. There is also a possibility that you yourself may transmit or spread information that is incorrect. Be particularly careful in that regard. If you do transmit incorrect information, admit your mistake promptly and correct it.

Adjust your settings to ensure that personal information or photographs are not visible to the general public.

There may be some information that you consider to be trivial but that someone you do not know may find extremely valuable. There have been cases in which someone has uploaded a photograph innocently thinking it was just a photo of the neighborhood, but, because GPS data was embedded in the image, their address was revealed. Instead of brushing it off, thinking it will be fine, do not forget to limit access and to adjust your privacy settings. Even if you have adjusted your settings, someone may have already shared that information. If that happens, it will be too late for you to do anything about it. Think carefully before you post or send any information.

4. When Posting on The Internet with The Name of The University Clearly Indicated

1. If a student organization wishes to set up and operate a social media site or account that clearly states the name of the university, or discontinue that site or account, it must enter the required details on a separate request form and apply to the Student Affairs Department.
2. Once the application has been submitted and approved, the account will become officially recognized by the university. University-recognized accounts are not officially operated by the university but are given status as being separately approved for operation. Once approved, such accounts must act responsibly when posting or sending information by complying with these Guidelines and observing basic etiquette. Links for approved accounts will be published on the university website.

5. Advice Regarding Problems

If, even though you have been careful regarding the above points, you encounter problems related to social media, seek advice immediately from the Student Affairs Department.

6. Changes to Guidelines

These Guidelines will be reviewed as required to enable appropriate responses to future changes in circumstances.