Given the increase in remote teaching, we want to help clarify when sharing photos or videos of students may be permissible. The US Department of Education has issued guidance around this matter.
In general, a photo or video is considered an education record when it directly relates to the student (rather than just incidentally related to him or her). This means that when a student is the intended focus of the photo or video and the content is maintained by an instructor in connection with their role at UConn, it is likely considered an education record. In this context, a student photo or video should not be released to anyone other than the student, unless prior written consent is obtained.
If however, an instructor records a course lecture that captures student participation, any visual representations of the students in this context are likely not educational records; the student is generally not the intended focus of the recording. You may share the recording with the appropriate class so long as you do so via University protected resources (e.g. HuskyCT).
Please note, if an instructor intends to record a lecture, the instructor should give notice to students that they intend to do so.
NEVER share student information, including videos and photos, on public social media platforms.
Please keep in mind that each case is context specific, but that in general you should err on the side of caution; if you are uncertain if your actions are permissible under FERPA, please ask first.
You may learn more about the University's FERPA Policy at https://policy.uconn.edu/2011/05/24/ferpa-policy/.
For more information, contact: Laurie Neal at privacy@uconn.edu