After accepting the presidency of the College of Wooster (Ohio), a highly-qualified and respected woman withdrew the day before taking office in the wake of rumors about a long-term relationship with another woman. Concern within the college community about the situation centers on two issues: homophobia and privacy for administrators. (MSE)

Examines recent findings that could influence the use of e-mail on university campuses. National privacy legislation and the inviolability of student records are discussed. It is concluded that more effective safeguards are necessary, and that the current steps are inadequate for the protection of students' rights. (Author/LRW)

As schools merge onto the information highway, districts must address their liability associated with Internet access. Schools need a practical policy supporting high access to global educational resources while limiting district liability. USENET provides easy access to controversial and pornographic materials. This article outlines federal…

Gives a historical explanation of library confidentiality policies and procedures and reviews notable invasions of patron privacy through use of library records by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service. Also reports on a study that examined patron confidentiality policies in Texas academic library reference…

The dysfunctions associated with artificial workgroups require attention to the social context of work. Complex issues of safety and security related to information technology may necessitate a new classification of experts, information rangers, with policing and investigative authority. (SK)

Interviews with 12 Kansas school executives and questionnaire data received from 49 board presidents and 72 superintendents disclosed that the majority had perceived the occurrence of communications that violated employees' privacy. Training, ethical awareness, and a well-written policy are part of the solution. A model policy is provided to guide…

The Pueblo Indians have developed creative and assertive techniques for interacting with tourists that help the Pueblo cope with the pressures of tourist contact, fortify their cultural boundaries, and exercise control over potentially uncomfortable situations. Secrecy and community regulations are examined in relation to host/guest dynamics and…

Summarizes the contents of the 54 articles of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. The articles define the freedoms and rights of children and prescribe standards for their protection and nurturing. (DM)

Discussion of the right to privacy of communications focuses on privacy expectations within a National Research and Education Network (NREN). Highlights include privacy needs in scientific and education communications; academic and research networks; network security and privacy concerns; protection strategies; and consequences of privacy…

Argues students have misconceptions about whether they may see letters of recommendation if they do not value their right of access. Reports students incorrectly believe they may view letters of recommendation if they are not accepted and that they can see the letter before it is sent. Recommends faculty who write letters of recommendation should…

Suggests classroom pen pals as a good Internet activity for elementary school students. Highlights include Web sites that host pen-pal information; visiting schools; Web sites; educational listservs; safety tips to discuss before sending e-mail; and suggested topics and activities. (LRW)

A complex case involving a disgruntled ex-employee's invasion of a college president's e-mail system resulted in a decision granting two plaintiffs' motions for summary judgment. This was the first recorded education-related collision on the electronic superhighway. Every educational institution should have a policy and procedure regarding what…

Presents a case study for use in business communication classes to help students understand and learn both the context and the strategies for the communication with business management. Deals with a business problem revolving around issues of appropriate e-mail use and privacy. Includes five assignments. (SR)

Reviews the Family Privacy Protection Act of 1995 and its potential impact on research and evaluation involving minors. Although this legislation was not passed, the issues related to both active and passive parental consent for the participation of minors in research are very much alive. (SLD)

The United States has taken only piecemeal steps to ensure privacy of personal information. This article examines the U.S. relating to privacy and data protection. It defines privacy and discusses international agreements relating to privacy, federal data protection laws, and narrowly applicable laws. (AEF)