In this lecture session I learnt about British Columbia Freedom of Information and Protection Act. According to various clauses in this act, it ensures that students’ and employees’ personal information is collected ,used and disclosed in a responsible way while protecting their privacy act.
As far as I am concerned,I found the importance given to the protection of personal information. This acts promotes transparency by allowing individuals to reach records by public institutions including schools. School authorities are not allowed to reveal student data without the consent of parents or their legal guardian.At the same , in an era where we are bombarded with information, reducing data breaches and unlawful use of data must is essential.
When, we were learning about this act, I remembered a similar act which is enacted in my home country. It is known as Right for information act which allows general public to access information relevant to public institution including schools. However both acts are not for the same purpose.
Another important concept I learnt in this session was digital citizenship. The idea refers to the responsible and ethical behaviour of individuals when using technologies such as internet and social media platforms. I think it is important that everyone in the society should be made aware of being digitally responsible in this technology driven society.
As the whole world is becoming increasingly connected through online, quite often we hear incidents of unethical and irresponsible use of digital platforms for various purposes. Sometimes these incidents end up taking human lives tragically. It is quite commendable how schools in BC are making students aware of this essential concept to make them responsible citizens of the digital world.
As a person who was involved in school counselling back in Sri Lanka, I wish I could have used this piece of writing to make students aware of importance in fostering a safe , inclusive and responsible digital environment for individuals and communities.
