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The possibilities and limitations of applying ‘open data’ principles in schools
Selwyn, Neil Henderson, Michael Chao, Shu-Hua
Selwyn, Neil
Henderson, Michael
Chao, Shu-Hua
Abstract
Large quantities of data are now being generated, collated and processed within schools through computerised systems and other digital technologies. In response to growing concerns over the efficiency and equity of how these data are used, the concept of ‘open data’ has emerged as a potential means of using digital technology to democratise data access and use within whole school communities. Drawing on participatory design research in two Australian secondary schools, this paper explores the possibilities of making existing school data openly available in digitised form for teachers, administrators and students to access, interpret and use. The results of these interventions – while only partially successful – provide valuable insights into the technical, informatic, organisational and social issues surrounding the use of data in schools. The paper concludes by considering the practical and theoretical limitations of attempting to democratise data engagement within school settings.
Keywords
data, schools, digital technology, open data, participatory design, school democracy
Date
2017
Type
Journal article
Journal
Cambridge Journal of Education
Book
Volume
47
Issue
2
Page Range
167-187
Article Number
ACU Department
School of Education
Faculty of Education and Arts
Faculty of Education and Arts
Collections
Relation URI
Source URL
Event URL
Open Access Status
License
All rights reserved
File Access
Controlled