The ethical and social implications of personalization technologies for e-learning

Helen Ashman*, Tim Brailsford, Alexandra I. Cristea, Quan Z. Sheng, Craig Stewart, Elaine G. Toms, Vincent Wade

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

39 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Personalization in information systems can be considered beneficial but also ethically and socially harmful. Like many other technologies, the uptake of personalization has been rapid, with inadequate consideration given to its effects. Personalization in e-learning systems also has potential for both harmful and beneficial outcomes, but less is known about its effects. The ethical and social hazards include privacy compromise, lack of control, reduced individual capability, and the commodification of education. Personalization is appearing in many systems already; thus, these hazards may already be occurring. Solutions, more research and community discussion of the issues are needed.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)819-832
Number of pages14
JournalInformation and Management
Volume51
Issue number6
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Sept 2014
Externally publishedYes

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