What's Happening?
The U.S. Department of Education has issued a warning to colleges and universities against using data from the National Study of Learning, Voting, and Engagement, citing potential violations of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). The department
has launched investigations into Tufts University and the National Student Clearinghouse, which are involved in the study. The study provides data on student voter registration and turnout rates, but the department is concerned about the potential sharing of students' personally identifiable information with third parties, including political organizations. Education Secretary Linda McMahon emphasized that educational institutions should focus on teaching and research rather than influencing elections.
Why It's Important?
This development could have significant implications for student participation in elections, as the study is a key resource for understanding and improving student voting rates. The Education Department's actions highlight the tension between promoting civic engagement and protecting student privacy. If universities are found to be in violation of FERPA, they could face financial penalties and other enforcement actions. This situation underscores the importance of balancing data-driven initiatives with privacy considerations, particularly in the context of political engagement and education.
What's Next?
The ongoing investigations by the Education Department will determine whether the study's data-sharing practices comply with FERPA. Universities are advised to refrain from using the study's data until the investigations are concluded. The outcome could lead to changes in how student voting data is collected and used, potentially affecting future studies and initiatives aimed at increasing civic engagement among students. The department's findings may also prompt legislative or policy changes to address privacy concerns in educational research.
