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3.3.2: FERPA considerations

  • Page ID
    253377

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    The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects the confidentiality of student education records. As AI tools become more integrated into teaching and learning, instructors must be vigilant about how these tools collect, store, and process student data. Not all AI platforms are FERPA-compliant—particularly third-party tools that operate outside the institution's LMS or data governance systems.

    ⚠️ Privacy Pitfalls to Avoid
    Use AI responsibly to avoid unintentionally violating student rights:

    • Unapproved tools: Avoid using AI tools that require students to create accounts or upload coursework unless the tool has been vetted and approved by your institution.
    • Data leakage: Student names, grades, or written submissions should never be entered into public or generative AI tools that store or train on user inputs.
    • Implied surveillance: Be transparent when using AI tools that analyze student behavior, engagement, or writing styles—especially if such data could influence grades or instructor perceptions.

    ✅ Use AI Responsibly with FERPA in Mind
    Use AI to:

    • Draft anonymized rubrics, instructions, or feedback without inputting student-identifiable information
    • Generate alternative assignment formats or support tools without uploading student work
    • Analyze trends or patterns using de-identified data approved for instructional use
    • Collaborate with your institution’s data privacy officer before integrating new AI technologies into coursework

    💡 Prompt Ideas for Instructors
    "Generate a rubric for a discussion assignment—do not use any student data."
    "Suggest general feedback for a student who struggles with argument structure—use only this sample prompt, not actual submissions."
    "Create anonymized examples based on these assignment criteria."


    🎓 Why This Matters for Instructors

    FERPA isn’t just a legal obligation—it’s a foundation for student trust. As instructors explore AI tools for grading, feedback, or instructional support, maintaining strict boundaries around student data is essential. A proactive, FERPA-conscious approach ensures ethical, legal, and student-centered use of AI in the classroom.

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    This page titled 3.3.2: FERPA considerations is shared under a CC BY 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by .


    This page titled 3.3.2: FERPA considerations is shared under a CC BY 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Pamela Huntington.