Issues surrounding students’ data and schools’ use of educational technology (EdTech) are in the spotlight following a cyberattack on an administration software platform affecting school boards in six provinces. The breach compromised sensitive personal information of students and staff, highlighting the challenges in upholding privacy in the data-driven design of EdTech systems.
With the increasing reliance on EdTech for various educational tasks, such as communication, homework, and scheduling, the privacy risks posed by these technologies have drawn attention in Ontario and beyond. The intricate network of providers, services, and protocols in EdTech makes it challenging for schools to ensure data privacy.
The integration of generative AI in classrooms further complicates privacy concerns, as EdTech providers leverage data-sharing with dominant players like OpenAI. This reliance on third-party services for data generation without a clear link to educational outcomes intensifies the pressure on school boards and regulators to safeguard student privacy.
EdTech’s influence extends beyond privacy issues, contributing to unequal power dynamics in education systems. Schools often lack the authority to influence the underlying infrastructure that governs data flows, emphasizing the need for robust governance and privacy protection measures.
Existing laws and policies fall short in addressing the complexities of information flows and infrastructure in EdTech. While some regions like Europe have started regulating digital services with power dynamics in mind, global data privacy laws remain outdated, emphasizing the need for comprehensive reforms.
Ontario’s recent legislative steps, such as Bill 194 empowering the Minister to issue technical standards for EdTech use in public schools, mark progress in regulating EdTech. However, ensuring public consultation and democratic values in EdTech procurement standards remains crucial for safeguarding student privacy.
To address these challenges, reforms must infuse EdTech governance with democratic oversight, prioritize privacy as contextual integrity, and establish principle-based laws that align with social values. These reforms aim to counter the concentration of power in EdTech companies and ensure transparency, accountability, and respect for privacy in educational settings.
While implementing these reforms may be challenging, prioritizing the protection of student privacy and fostering democratic governance in EdTech ecosystems will pave the way for a better future for students and citizens alike.
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