College tests internet blocking
By Maggie Rhynes
IV Leader Staff
An overflow of internet traffic is to blame for the
blocking of several internet sites on campus. Emily Vescogni, director of
learning technologies, explained the technology department is simply looking for
a solution to the problem. "We're trying out several different products that
will help us get a better idea of how the bandwidth is being used." She said.
Many students found internet sites, like MySpace.com, blocked
around noon on April 3. High bandwidth and adult content were sited as the
cause.
Several students were upset by the classification of adult
content. “We’re paying to be here, then you take away my MySpace; something, I,
as an adult, can access. What’s next? Bathroom privileges will be taken away?”
Kaitlyn McConnaughhay said.
Vescogni stressed that it is not what's going on. "With the
first product it was very limited. It gave us clustered options [to block]
everything that was adult content, and we couldn't classify what adult content
was. Or we could block everything that was high bandwidth, as defined by the
product supplier."
Vescogni confirmed that there have been no incidents of
students accessing inappropriate or adult content on MySpace, it was just part
of the categories selected to be blocked.
Vescogni also noted that after using the first product, the
bandwidth was cut in half.
In regards to blocked Web sites Vescogni noted students were able to submit
comments via the screen on blocked sites.
She said several complaints and concerns had been expressed
and they were being taken into consideration. "We are very appreciative of the
students who told us what they were trying to get to and why." She said.
Nikki Hamilton said she was angry at the blocking and said,
“This is bulls---, we’re old enough to decide for ourselves what to look at.”
Some of the products being tested allow for greater
flexibility. "We can say, let the high bandwidth through, but limit it to a
percentage of the bandwidth," said Vescogni. This would allow access to sites
that use a higher bandwidth, just at a lesser rate.
Students are urged to voice their concerns, Vescogni said.
"Any constructive criticism is always helpful. Our biggest concern is that we
have the adequate bandwidth for the teaching and learning processes."