And content filtering may amount to a “digital book ban,” say researchers from the Center for Democracy & Technology in a pair of new reports that assess student privacy and civil rights as artificial intelligence advances. Here are a few enlightening data points the organization released Wednesday:

Fewer parents believe that the benefits of monitoring student activity outweigh the risks.
Most students whose schools use content filtering say that it has made completing assignments hard, with LGBTQ+ students even more likely to feel challenged.
50% of teachers think content filtering is stifling students’ growth.
About one-third of teachers agree that content associated with LGBTQ+ issues or students of color is more likely to be filtered or blocked.
Only 27% of parents have been asked for their input on what their school filters, blocks or monitors.
Four in 10 Title I teachers (and about a third of all teachers) know of a student who was contacted by law enforcement because of online activity tracked by the school.
A growing majority of students and parents are concerned about the privacy and security of student data collected by schools.

What it boils down to, the Center asserts, is that the students, teachers and parents surveyed want more guidance, training and voice around how schools monitor online activity, filter content and use generative AI. “Students, parents, and teachers must have a voice—and receive support—in ensuring the responsible use of technology in schools," adds Alexandra Reeve Givens, the Center for Democracy & Technology’s president and CEO.

Instant Insights /

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