Data Ethics Course
While laws set the legal parameters that govern data use, ethics establish the fundamental principles of "right and wrong" that are critical to the appropriate management and use of education data in the technology age. This online course is based on The Forum Guide to Data Ethics and is focused on how ethical principles apply to education data. It is intended for any person who handles data in an education organization, including superintendents, chief information officers, principals, teachers, registrars, counselors, school board members, data managers, technology directors, information systems staff, data stewards, technical staff, office staff, paraprofessionals, volunteers, and vendors. While there is no requirement to follow these principles, the Forum hopes that the contents will prove a useful reference to data handlers and education leaders. Users will receive a certificate within 2 weeks after completing this course and passing the assessment.
Introduction to Data Ethics
The Forum Code of Data Ethics
Canon 1. Demonstrate honesty, integrity, and professionalism
- Vignette (46.3 KB)
- Recommended Practices and Training (55.2 KB)
Canon 2. Appreciate that data do not describe the whole person
- Vignette (52 KB)
- Recommended Practices and Training (66.5 KB)
Canon 3. Be aware of statutes, regulations, and ethical standards
- Vignette (49 KB)
- Recommended Practices and Training (72 KB)
Canon 4. Report information accurately and without bias
- Vignette (49.3 KB)
- Recommended Practices and Training (63 KB)
Canon 5. Be accountable for ethical data use
- Vignette (46.5 KB)
- Recommended Practices and Training (56.4KB)
Canon 6. Promote data quality
- Vignette (49 KB)
- Recommended Practices and Training (99 KB)
Canon 7. Promote understanding and accurate analysis of data
- Vignette (48.3 KB)
- Recommended Practices and Training (49.5 KB)
Canon 8. Treat data systems as a valuable organizational asset
- Vignette (50 KB)
- Recommended Practices and Training (55 KB)
Canon 9. Safeguard sensitive data
- Vignette (37 KB)
- Recommended Practices and Training (47.8 KB)
Additional Materials
- Glossary (52.1 KB)
- List of Forum Publications (107 KB)
- Whistleblower Protection Policy (78.2 KB)
- Memoranda of Understanding and Other Data Use Agreements (81 KB)
- Related Resources Document (86 KB)
- Link to Forum FERPA Resources Page (170 KB)
Final Assessment
You will receive a certificate within 2 weeks after completing this course and passing the assessment.
Please be sure to provide your full name and email address (associated with your organization) upon successful completion of the course.