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What are the ethical concerns surrounding the use of educational technology in online education?

Ephriam Waterman

As a user of various online education platforms, I believe that the ethical concerns surrounding the use of educational technology must be addressed and given the utmost importance. While technology has revolutionized the way we learn, it also poses many ethical dilemmas that need to be evaluated and resolved.

One major concern with the use of educational technology is the issue of privacy. Online platforms often require students to provide personal information, including their name, age, address, and sometimes even financial details. Any breach of this information could have dire consequences for students, especially minors. Therefore, education technology providers must ensure that the data they collect is stored securely and only used for its intended purposes.

Another ethical concern is the unequal access to technology. Not all students have the same level of access to technology, especially in developing countries. This digital divide may result in certain students being left behind, disadvantaged, or unable to access educational platforms. The issue of unequal access to technology is a critical problem that must be addressed if we are to deliver equal educational opportunities to all.

While online education has many benefits, it also raises questions about the quality of instruction and the credibility of online degrees. Some learners may look to shortcuts and quick-fixes to earn their degrees online, thus compromising the quality of their education. At the same time, employers may also question the credibility of online degrees and their worth when compared with traditional degrees. Thus, it is vital that educational institutions offering online degrees maintain the same standards of education as their offline counterparts.

Additionally, there is the issue of online harassment and bullying. Educational technology platforms must ensure that students are protected from online harassment, bullying, and bias. This is especially important when considering the impact of social media on online education. Students can often find themselves a target of cyber-bullying, where online forums can become a place for open hostility and derogatory comments. Online educational providers should take legal measures to ensure the safety of their students.

In conclusion, online education has revolutionized the learning process, but it also poses ethical concerns regarding privacy, quality, and access to technology. It is crucial that these concerns are not ignored and that education technology providers actively work to resolve these issues. As users of educational technology platforms, it is our responsibility to demand transparency, accountability, and ethical standards from our online education providers. By doing so, we can ensure that online education remains a powerful and empowering tool for the betterment of learners everywhere.