You may recall that I asked some time ago about the publication of results
on the Web. Since then I have asked the Data Protection Registrar for a
formal response to a paper I have written on the subject.
They have replied seeking further clarification of a number of points but
colleagues may be interested to know that their general thrust so far is
that universities should not publish individual results in any form without
the consent of the individual (which presumably could be refused). This
would include the pasting up of pass lists, etc. within the institution.
As I'm sure that this is a widespread practice within the HE community I
would welcome any comments on the effect such a ban would have. In effect,
this would mean that all results would have to be communicated to
individual students only. Our regulations require class-lists to be
published and therefore this would require a major modifiaction. It also
calls into question our ability to inform employers of results without
first obtaining the consent of the student.
The main line of their argument at present is that the Registrar has ruled
that schools may not release the examination results of individuals to the
local press without consent. It therefore follows in their view that
universities should not operate to a different standard.
I will not be replying until next week at the earliest so any constructive
comments would be welcome.
Dennis Barrington-Light
Head of Student Records and Statistics
University of Cambridge, 10 Peas Hill, Cambridge CB2 3PN
Tel: 01223-332303 (Direct line) Fax: 01223-331200
Email: [log in to unmask]
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