6.1. Introduction
David Gardner
Artificial intelligence has transformed what it means to live and learn in a digital society. Where once our “digital footprint” was little more than a trail of past clicks and logins, today that data actively shapes our present experiences and future opportunities. Every interaction you have with an AI system, whether asking a chatbot for help, uploading coursework to a learning platform, or streaming a personalized playlist, adds to a constantly evolving profile of your behavior, preferences, and needs.
In this module, we will explore the promises and risks of this new era. You will learn how to protect your personal information, understand the rules and regulations that govern data collection, and develop the habits of a responsible digital citizen in the age of AI.
Module 6 Learning Outcomes
By the end of this module, you will be able to:
- Identify your data rights under major regulations such as FERPA, HIPAA, GDPR, and the Texas Data Privacy and Security Act (TDPSA).
- Analyze the benefits and ethical risks of AI in higher education, with a focus on learning analytics and remote proctoring.
- Strengthen your AI media literacy by evaluating AI-generated information for accuracy, transparency, and bias.
- Develop a framework for ethical digital citizenship that you can apply across academic, professional, and personal contexts.
Key Idea: Data Is Everywhere
Your data is no longer passive; it is an active ingredient in how AI systems function. Understanding this relationship is the first step toward becoming an informed, empowered participant in the digital world.
📚 Weekly Reflection Journal
Reflection Prompt: Think about the last time you used an AI tool, whether for class, work, or everyday life. What data did you provide? How do you think that data might be stored, shared, or used to influence your future interactions?
Looking Ahead
In the next chapter, we will dive deeper into the foundations of data rights and privacy laws. By understanding the regulations that protect you—and their limits—you’ll gain the tools to make smarter choices about how your information is shared and used in an AI-driven world.
