Ethical Considerations and Responsibilities of Using Technology in the Classroom

Podcast title: Tech Talk in Education

Welcome to Tech Talks in Education, Today, we will be exploring the impact of technology in the classroom. We will be discussing the important topic of: ethical considerations and responsibilities that come with using technology in the classroom. Our focus will be on student privacy, child safeguarding, digital citizenship and equitable access.

• Student Privacy Let’s start with student privacy. In today’s tech-driven learning environments, data is constantly being collected—login records, assignments, browsing activity, even biometric data in some cases. But who has access to that data? And how is it being used? Educators and administrators have a responsibility to choose tools and platforms that comply with privacy laws like FERPA and COPPA. It’s not just about the legal aspect—it’s about protecting students from exploitation and surveillance. “When technology is used effectively for instructional reasons, the educational experience improves, and students become interested”. - Haleem, A., Javaid, M., Asim Qadri, M., Suman, R. (2022)
• Child Safeguarding Closely tied to privacy is child safeguarding. With online learning platforms, video calls, and cloud-based tools, there's an increased risk of inappropriate content, cyberbullying, and unauthorized contact. Schools need to implement strict safeguards: content filters, monitored communication channels, and digital behavior policies. But tech companies also share the responsibility—designing platforms with built-in protections and transparency.
• Digital Citizenship Now let’s talk about digital citizenship—teaching students how to use technology responsibly, respectfully, and safely. This means going beyond just knowing how to use devices. It’s about ethics: avoiding plagiarism, respecting others online, and understanding the long-term impact of your digital footprint. Teachers play a key role in modeling and teaching these values—because how students behave online will shape their futures. According to Allison Bellwood “students become more enthusiastic about digital learning when you add social purpose. The Micro:bit “do you :bit challenge” teaches children how to use devices respectfully and safely while learning and having fun doing it.
• Equitable Access Finally, we must address equity. Not all students have equal access to technology at home, or the same comfort level with using it. This digital divide can deepen existing inequalities. Equity in tech means providing devices, ensuring internet access, and offering training and support to both students and their families. Without that, we risk leaving some learners behind. The Inspire Learning Programme focuses on the equity aspect of technology in the classroom. Conclusion: Using technology in the classroom offers incredible opportunities—but it also brings serious responsibilities. As educators, school leaders, and tech developers, we must prioritize student safety, ethical integrity, and equal access to create digital environments where every child can thrive.