Our kids are under surveillance: The hidden privacy crisis in Ed Tech
a year ago
- #Privacy
- #EdTech
- #DataCollection
- Ed Tech apps collect extensive student data, including location, biometric information, personal details, behavior, and sensitive records.
- 96% of US school apps share student data with third parties, often advertisers and data brokers.
- Data collected is used for advertising, profiling, and targeted marketing, potentially harming students' future opportunities.
- Marginalized families and children with special needs are more concerned and affected by data collection practices.
- Schools and parents are often unaware of the extent of data sharing and tracking in educational apps.
- Data breaches, like PowerSchool's in 2025, expose sensitive student information, including medical and identity details.
- Awareness is growing, with parents, students, and educators advocating for stronger privacy protections and transparency.
- Steps to protect privacy include reviewing app policies, limiting data sharing, using encrypted tools, and advocating for better laws.
- Privacy-first alternatives exist, proving that educational tools can function without invasive tracking.