On the Use of Facial Recognition Technologies in University: the UNED Case
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5944/ried.25.1.31533Keywords:
evaluation, information technologies, ethics, prevention, fraudAbstract
Biometric identification technologies have experienced a boom in recent years, with applications being proposed and implemented in a wide array of fields, including education and, in particular, at the university level. However, in light of recent experiences, it is a fact that such trend might impact learning and teaching processes in unexpected ways. In that sense, we summarize some considerations about the use of biometric identification technologies in general and, particularly, about the use of facial recognition technologies in the framework of remote assessment during the COVID-19 pandemic. We provide a general analysis of the limitations of those technologies, with special attention to the technical, legal and ethical dimensions, and we explore potentially negative consequences of the use of such technologies. As an illustration, the experience of UNED, the biggest university in Spain, with a hybrid face-to-face and remote learning and teaching system, is provided. We expose the decisions taken by this institution to face the challenge of remote examination during the imposed lockdowns due to COVID-19. Given the number of evidences pointing to acute flaws in the technology which might have unpredictable consequences, in any case it is recommended to apply extreme caution in making decisions in this field.
FULL ARTICLE:
https://revistas.uned.es/index.php/ried/article/view/31533/24364
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