Have you ever thought about what happens to your information when you use school apps or devices? If not, don’t worry—you’re not alone. But here’s the thing: schools and the apps they give you aren’t always just about helping you learn. Sometimes, they’re also collecting information about you. That’s your data and it’s important. Let’s break it down so you can understand what’s happening and what you can do about it.
School Apps and Your Data
You probably use school apps to do homework, watch videos, or chat with teachers and classmates. But did you know that more than 60% of these apps share your data with companies you’ve never heard of? These companies might use your information to make money instead of just helping you learn. Here’s what that means for you:
What Kind of Data Are They Collecting?
- Your name, device ID, and sometimes even your location are shared.
- They can track what you do on the app to figure out your habits, interests, and even how you think.
What Happens to Your Data?
- Profiling: Companies use your data to build a detailed profile of you, like a digital copy of your life.
- Targeted Ads: Some edtech companies sell your profile to advertisers, who then show you ads based on what they think you like.
- Tracking Across Devices: Your data can link everything you do on different apps and devices, so companies can know even more about you.
- Shared Without Limits: Sometimes, one company shares your data with dozens of other companies. That’s like giving your private diary to a whole room of strangers.
Why You Should Care
You might think, “So what? It’s just data.” But here’s why it matters:
- It’s YOUR Privacy: If someone tracked what you do all day, wouldn’t that feel weird? Your data is like your digital diary, and no one should take it without your say-so.
- It Could Affect Your Future: Imagine someone using your data to influence what colleges or jobs you’re offered—or even just to sell you stuff you don’t need.
- It’s Not Always Safe: If your data gets hacked, strangers could get access to information about you.
Here’s something else that’s really important but might surprise you: kids in schools with less money are more likely to have their data shared. That’s because free or cheap apps often collect data to make money, and these schools can’t always afford the expensive, privacy-safe tools. Meanwhile, schools with more money can buy apps that protect their students’ data better. That’s not fair, right? Everyone deserves the same level of privacy.
What Can You Do About It?
The good news is, you have more power than you think! That’s your data and it’s important. Here’s how you can protect your data and make a difference:
Ask Questions
- What kind of data does this app collect about me?
- Who is that data shared with?
- Can I still use the app if I don’t want my data shared?
Speak Up:
- Talk to your teacher or school principal about why your privacy matters.
- Suggest that the school use apps that don’t share data with outside companies.
Learn and Share:
- Find out more about data privacy and why it’s important.
- Share what you’ve learned with friends—they might not know their data is being shared, either!
Be Smart Online:
- Think about what you’re sharing on school apps and devices.
- Log out of accounts when you’re not using them and avoid using school devices for personal stuff.
One Voice Can Make a Difference
You have the right to know what’s happening to your data and to ask for better protections. If you speak up, you might inspire others to do the same—and together, you can create change. Schools, parents, and students should work as a team to make sure your information stays safe. Your voice matters, so don’t be afraid to use it! Remember: That’s your data and it’s important.
Do you want to know more about your privacy and how your data can be used? Check out our interactive workbooks and videos: Welcome Digital Navigators! – Data Girl and Friends
Want to share this info with your parents and get them on board? Give them this link: Tech at School: Protecting Your Child’s Privacy