DIGITAL TRUST POLICY
At Consortium eLearning Canada, we recognize that building and maintaining digital trust is essential to providing a secure, ethical, and high-quality learning environment. Our commitment to digital trust is foundational to our operations, ensuring that learners, staff, and partners feel confident in the security, privacy, and integrity of their interactions with us. This Digital Trust Policy outlines the principles and practices that guide our approach to digital interactions, including data privacy, security, ethical use of technology, and transparency in how we manage digital platforms and services.
1. Data Privacy and Protection
Confidentiality: Consortium eLearning respects the privacy and confidentiality of all personal data shared by learners, staff, and other stakeholders. We are committed to safeguarding all personal and sensitive data collected in compliance with privacy laws and regulations, including applicable national and international data protection laws (e.g., GDPR, PIPEDA).
Informed Consent: We ensure that all individuals are fully informed about what data is being collected, how it will be used, and who will have access to it. Consent is obtained explicitly before collecting any personal data.
Data Security: Consortium eLearning employs robust technical measures to protect personal data from unauthorized access, loss, or misuse. This includes encryption, secure servers, and access controls. All staff and contractors handling personal data are trained to follow best practices for data protection.
Retention and Deletion: We retain personal data only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected, and we ensure that data is securely deleted once it is no longer needed.
2. Ethical Use of Technology
Fair and Transparent Practices: Consortium eLearning is committed to using digital tools and technologies in ways that are fair, transparent, and aligned with our core values. We avoid any use of technologies that could harm learners, staff, or other stakeholders or infringe on their rights.
AI and Automation: Any use of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, or automated systems in CEC’s eLearning platforms will be conducted ethically, with clear policies in place to ensure these technologies are used to benefit learners and staff without bias or harm.
Digital Accessibility: We are dedicated to ensuring that our eLearning platforms, materials, and resources are accessible to all individuals, including those with disabilities. Consortium eLearning adheres to accessibility standards and guidelines (such as WCAG) to create an inclusive learning environment for everyone.
3. Cybersecurity and Risk Management
Security Protocols: Consortium eLearning implements robust cybersecurity measures to protect its digital infrastructure, including firewalls, encryption, intrusion detection systems, and secure login methods. Regular security audits and updates are conducted to ensure the integrity and safety of our systems.
Incident Response: In the event of a data breach or security incident, Consortium eLearning has a well-defined incident response plan. This plan includes notifying affected individuals in a timely manner, investigating the breach, and taking corrective actions to prevent future incidents.
Third-Party Providers: Consortium eLearning works with trusted third-party vendors who adhere to similar standards of privacy and security. All contracts with external vendors include provisions to safeguard digital trust and protect sensitive data.
4. Transparency and Accountability
Clear Communication: Consortium eLearning provides clear, transparent information about how digital platforms, tools, and data are used in our learning environment. We strive to ensure that learners and staff understand the digital tools and services available to them and how their data will be managed.
Accountability: Consortium eLearning holds itself and its partners accountable for maintaining high standards of digital trust. We actively engage with stakeholders to review practices, seek feedback, and improve our digital services. Regular audits and assessments are conducted to verify that policies are being followed.
Privacy Rights: Consortium eLearning respects the right of individuals to access, correct, or delete their personal data. Learners and staff can request information about the data we hold on them, and they have the right to withdraw consent or request corrections if any personal data is inaccurate.
5. Digital Citizenship and Ethical Behavior
Promoting Positive Behavior: Consortium eLearning encourages all learners, staff, and stakeholders to engage in positive and ethical behavior in digital spaces. This includes treating others with respect, avoiding cyberbullying or harassment, and adhering to our behavioral standards in online communication.
Responsible Use: Learners and staff are expected to use digital tools and platforms responsibly, ensuring that their actions do not compromise the safety, privacy, or well-being of others in the digital learning environment.
Content Integrity: Consortium eLearning promotes the creation and sharing of high-quality, authentic, and original content. Plagiarism, misinformation, or any form of digital misconduct is not tolerated in any of our programs or services.
6. Innovation with Trust
Adoption of Emerging Technologies: As we innovate and incorporate new technologies into our eLearning programs, Consortium eLearning ensures that these technologies enhance the learning experience while upholding the highest standards of ethical use, privacy, and security.
Continuous Improvement: We regularly review and update our digital policies to reflect new technological developments and emerging best practices. Feedback from learners and stakeholders is integrated into our practices to improve our commitment to digital trust.
7. Education and Awareness
Training and Resources: Consortium eLearning provides regular training and resources for staff, learners, and partners on topics related to data privacy, cybersecurity, ethical technology use, and digital literacy. Our aim is to empower everyone within the organization to act responsibly and with integrity in the digital environment.
Supporting Digital Literacy: We support learners in developing the necessary skills to navigate the digital world safely, ethically, and responsibly, including understanding privacy rights, recognizing online threats, and using digital tools effectively for their education.
8. Reporting and Resolving Issues
Reporting Concerns: Any concerns related to digital trust, including security breaches, unethical technology use, or privacy violations, can be reported through our designated channels. We ensure that all reports are handled confidentially and promptly.
Resolution Process: Consortium eLearning follows a transparent and fair process to investigate and resolve any digital trust-related issues. We are committed to taking appropriate corrective action to address concerns and ensure that digital trust is maintained in all of our activities.