What crucial step must a technology committee take before implementing educational online resources?

Before a technology committee can implement educational online resources, protecting student privacy is an essential step. This is particularly important in today’s digital age, where data breaches and privacy concerns are prominent. By ensuring that student information is secure and that the online resources comply with laws such as FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act), the committee can foster a safe learning environment. This process includes evaluating the data collection practices of the online resources, ensuring that any shared information is appropriate and regulated, and informing parents and students of their rights.

Understanding the importance of student privacy not only builds trust among stakeholders—students, parents, and educators—but it also aligns with ethical standards in educational technology. Once privacy protections are firmly in place, other steps, like developing content or procuring devices, can follow safely and effectively.