Data Privacy in Educational Technology: What Educators Need to Know

In the digital realm, educational technology has become an essential tool in classrooms. These technologies have revolutionized how students learn, and teachers teach from interactive learning platforms to virtual classes.

However, as educators increasingly rely on these tools, concerns about data privacy have come to the forefront.  Ensuring the privacy and security of student data is a legal requirement and also a moral responsibility. This post details what educators need to know to protect student data. 

Understanding the Importance of Data Privacy

Data privacy refers to protecting personal information from unauthorized access or disclosure. In the context of educational technology, this includes a wide range of data, such as: 

• Names
• Contact information
• Academic records
• Behavioral data
  

With the increasing use of educational apps and platforms, vast amounts of data are being collected and stored online. This data can be vulnerable to cyberattacks, unauthorized access, and misuse if not properly protected. 

Legal Requirements and Regulations

Educators must be aware of the legal frameworks that govern data privacy in education. The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a law in the United States. This law shields the privacy of student education data, which transfer to the student when they turn 18 or attend a school beyond the high school level. FERPA requires that schools have written permission from the parent or eligible student to release any information from a student’s education record. 

Another important regulation is the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act. COPPA has requirements on online services aimed at children under 13. This act ensures that online services obtain verifiable parental consent before collecting, using, or disclosing personal details from children. 

Beyond the United States, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union sets a high standard for data protection and privacy. Educational institutions that deal with students in the EU must comply with GDPR. Compliance includes obtaining explicit consent for data processing and ensuring that data is securely stored. 

Best Practices for Ensuring Data Privacy

Choose secure platforms: When selecting educational technology platforms, opt for those that prioritize data privacy. Platforms such as Teach ‘n Go emphasizes on security and complies with data protection regulations. Using such platforms can significantly reduce the risk of data breaches. 

Educate yourself and your students: Understanding the basics of data privacy is crucial for educators and students. Teachers should stay informed about the latest privacy practices and share this knowledge with their students. This can include lessons on creating strong passwords, recognizing phishing attempts, and understanding the importance of not sharing personal information online. 

Obtain informed consent: Before using any educational technology that collects student data, obtain informed consent from parents or guardians. This ensures that they know how their child’s data will be used and allows them to opt out if they are uncomfortable with the terms. 

Limit data collection: Only collect the necessary data for educational purposes. Avoid storing sensitive information unless absolutely necessary. Additionally, regularly review the data you collect to ensure that it is still relevant and securely delete data that is no longer needed. 

Endnote

Data privacy in educational technology is a critical issue that requires the attention of all educators. By understanding the legal requirements, choosing secure platforms, and implementing best practices, educators can protect their students’ personal information and create a safer digital learning environment.