Posted 3:11 p.m. Monday, Aug. 28, 2023
What to do as you plan classes?
Innovative and imaginative use of technologies can enhance and strengthen teaching and learning in your courses. With all the various technologies now available, it is important to remember that third-party technologies that require students to register for use could create a potential FERPA violation. When students are asked to register for, post on, upload to, or otherwise communicate via a service or platform not licensed by UWL, it may raise concerns about secure transmission, storage and usage of confidential information. These concerns exist when university information is stored in technologies or cloud services not provided or contracted by UWL. Additionally, third-party tools can claim intellectual property for work completed on their site creating a potential risk for students and instructors alike.
As you are getting ready for classes, please consider the use of these technologies and the connection to student privacy, Family Education Right to Privacy Act (FERPA). You are really encouraged to reflect on the information/data the technology is asking you and/or your students to provide. If you plan to use third-party technology in your courses, consider the intention and plan for solid integration of the technology. Discuss with your students ways to be aware of their digital privacy and encourage students to discuss with you if they have concerns with the use of this third-party technology. An alternative assignment or information delivery option should be available if a student prefers to opt-out of assignments of this nature to protect their personal, identifying information (including their name) or parts of their academic record (assignments, grades or other content).
You might also consider adding a statement in your syllabus and/or the assignment directions about these tools and how to connect with you should a student have concerns about privacy. Some example syllabus language is included in the links below. If you have additional questions about using a third-party technology, here are some UWL resources - questions about FERPA can be directed to records@uwlax.edu; questions about alternative assignment options or syllabus language can be directed to catl@uwlax.edu;. and, overarching questions about the use of third-party technologies in your courses can be directed to your college dean.
Optional Readings: