Connect: Data Privacy

Make Learning Accessible

• Protecting Student Privacy - U.S. Department of Education

Support Best Practice

How do we ensure that the technology tools we use to collect data about student progress remains secure? How do we vet new resources to protect student data?  As you begin to design for digital age teaching and learning, these are important questions to ask.  Use a tool like the Data Privacy Tool Evaluation Template from Define to answer these questions.  Here's an example of a completed template for Quizlet.  For lesson ideas to promote data privacy concepts with your students, visit Common Sense Education's Data Privacy and Digital Footprint pages.

You might also consider using multiple means of engagement to reinforce these topics like the Graphic Novel - "Social Smarts: Privacy, the Internet and You"  (from the Office of Privacy Commissioner of Canada).

Furthermore, evaluation is an important part of the learning process.  Utilize an online assessment tool; most have pre-made "quizzes" like Quizlet - Digital Footprint.

Level Up

SAMR Framework for Tech Integration

• Substitution - Watch a video on data privacy/digital footprint
• Augmentation - Watch the video on data privacy/digital footprint and answer the questions within the Playposit or on Quizlet
• Modification - After researching privacy policies on 2-3 websites, create a Flipgrid about the findings
• Redefinition - Research a social media platform/site; using data privacy evaluation criteria, create a digital artifact that demonstrates how you reviewed the site for data privacy. Share with your class/the company suggestions for improvement.

TPACK Framework for Tech Integration

• Technology - vocabulary and protocols regarding data privacy; how to use the data privacy analysis template
• Pedagogy - how will you present the information -
  • Data Privacy - consider having students use the review checklist/template and evaluate the privacy policy of a popular social media site; debrief the findings.
  • Digital Footprint - students should be reminded of keeping information safe and secure, using strong passwords, and the implications of public networks/wifi.
• Content - what content area connections can be made -
  • The concept of Data Privacy crosses multiple content areas. Students use a variety of tools and apps that collect data. Teachers should be mindful of the sites they require students to use and the information collected and access requirements.
  • Digital Footprint - students should consider their current digital footprint and reflect on what it looks like and the implications of its current status. Students should make a plan to improve the online identity and act on it.