Whatever discomfort parents may experience on-camera during
videoconferencing, kids are likely to have it even worse. Students may be
uncomfortable about displaying their living space to the class, or they may
fear other kids taking screenshots of them to use in cyber-bullying.
Kids should define the online comfort level
Parents can talk to their children and reassure them they
have to right to insist on privacy. Consider a role-play so you and your child
can practice what to say if feeling uncomfortable on-camera.
Online learning specialist Karen Costa told the New York Times that teachers should not penalize kids by lowering grades if students
turn off their cameras. She encourages teachers to make liberal use of the chat
box or chat forums and to check in with kids often to make sure they're
engaged. Speak to your child's teacher if you find there's a ban on turning off
cameras.
Open communication with your child’s teachers
Video communication misses many cues conveyed during
in-person conversation, from body language to breathing to comments made in an
undertone. If your child is feeling misunderstood, check with the teacher.
Amelia Vance of the Future of Privacy Forum says teachers should ask for
feedback to make sure they're not misinterpreting children's facial
expressions.
Create a safe space for online discussions
Kerry Gallagher of the non-profit ConnectSafely.org suggests
setting up a space in the home where the child does not mind revealing the
background setting on video. They might want to hang a cloth or cardboard in
the space or turn on a digital background.
Review online platform’s privacy policy
Parents can also play a role by making sure schools have
thoroughly vetted the online platforms they're using, to prevent intrusions and
stealing of data. Passwords should be required for online classes, with private
sharing of the password. Ask teachers how they will be keeping track of
attendance, engagement, and progress, and how these elements will contribute
towards grading.
To determine the security ratings
of specific online learning tools, parents may consult several websites, such
as Common Sense Media, Electronic Frontier Foundation, and the Future of Privacy Forum. Electronic Frontier
Foundation, a nonprofit privacy advocacy group in California, offers an online surveillance self-defense kit.