Unit 5 explores the ethical responsibilities educators hold in protecting student privacy and maintaining confidentiality in both physical and digital learning environments. It examines legal and moral obligations related to handling student records, sharing information, and using educational technologies. The unit also addresses the complexities of recording lessons or student performances, highlighting the importance of consent and discretion. By the end of the unit, students will understand how to balance transparency and accountability with the need to safeguard sensitive information in ethically sound ways.
1. Introduction
Privacy,
confidentiality, and data ethics are foundational to ethical teaching practices
in higher education. With the increasing use of digital platforms, online
learning tools, and data-driven systems, educators must navigate complex
responsibilities regarding student information, digital identities, and
consent. This unit explores ethical frameworks that guide the protection of
learners’ personal data and promotes best practices for managing sensitive
information in physical and virtual classrooms.
