Best Practice

Biometric technology in schools: Lessons learned from ICO regulation

Artificial intelligence Edtech IT infrastructure
New research shows that half of schools regularly use artificial intelligence but that many are putting pupil data and biometric information at risk. Data protection expert Claire Archibald describes a dedicated process for the safe adoption of AI-driven technologies
Are you compliant? Last year, the ICO issued a public reprimand to a school for failing to comply with the law when installing a facial recognition system in its canteen - Adobe Stock

While the opportunities that artificial intelligence presents for education are exciting, schools must consider potential issues when adopting new technologies.

In Browne Jacobson’s recent School Leaders Survey – which captured the views of leaders representing 1,650 schools – half of the respondents said they are using AI tools “regularly” or “often”.

However, at the same time, only 9% said they had an agreed AI strategy, while three-quarters felt there was insufficient AI expertise in their organisation.

These numbers are concerning because of the potential risks that AI presents to schools, particularly as recent developments from the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) puts education in the data regulator’s crosshairs.

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