Commonly accepted definition of social media: "a group of Internet-based applications that build on the ideological and technological foundations of Web 2.0, which allows the creation and exchange of user-generated content."[
The KHSAA instituted a social media policy last year. The text of the policy as published in 2010 is as follows:
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KHSAA
With increased use of social networking through the internet and via cell phone, it is important for officials to understand the importance of maintaining an ethical approach while participating in various forums, chat rooms, and all forms of social media. To malign or openly criticize another official in this manner is considered not only uporofessional, but it undermines sports officiating in general. It is also unprofessional to offer rules clarifications or interpretations through these medium without the expressed directive from the appropriate state high school association.
Additionally, it is important for sports officials to realize that it is considered very unprofessional to carry a cell phone on the field or court, regardless of the reason. Officials are encouraged to refrain from the use of these types of electronic devices for any communication while the official has rules book jurisdiction, including texting or other forms of messaging or communication except in case of an emergency.
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The key potion is bolded. As long as I don't malign or criticize other officials, or offer rules interpretations or clarifications, I don;t violate this policy. The problem I have with such policies is how they are written and interpretted. The use of the web is great adn growing, and is becoming a regular part of everyday life for many Americans. I beleive the code of conduct for officials can easily be modified to include the use of internet communications.
