Online privacy

This article was commenting about concerns of student data being accessible to outside parties or organizations.  Many people show concerns regarding accessibility of student data. There are apps and computer programs that are used that store student data. So, this allows the possibility that these instances could occur such as: a data breach, data loss, or identifiable data being given to third parties. Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), may not be reaching the needs or challenges presented by technology.

What should we do to maintain student privacy?

~ Know what online services are being used, how student data is being used and protected. This can be evaluated by a district wide audit.

~Keep students and families currently updated about topics regarding student data privacy through open communication.

~Provide written contracts with educational services

~Have educational services approved and read the terms of service

~Make sure staff are consistently trained about data privacy policies

~It’s important to be aware of federal, state, and local laws

This is a crucial topic to keep student data private.  These tips can assist a school or educators in maintaining privacy and keeping student data safe.  I recommend this article for use in the school system.

Reference

Obrien, A. (2014). A Starting point for ensuring student online privacy. Retrieved from: www.edutopia.org/blog/starting-point-ensuring-student-online-privacy-anne-obrien