Bryon Reese's podcast with Nir Bar-Lev delves deeper into the broader implications of AI and privacy. As Bar-Lev notes, AI's ability to collect and analyze data at scale means “privacy as we know it no longer exist.” (Bar-Lev 2020). In addition to this alarming statement, AI systems can inherit biases from their training data, leading to discriminatory outcomes, such as racial misidentification in facial recognition technology. Data breaches are another significant concern, as the large datasets collected for AI can become targets for cyberattacks, exposing individuals' private information and leading to identity theft. Moreover, AI technologies can create deepfakes—realistic but fake audio or video content—that can be used for misinformation, defamation, or blackmail. These examples highlight the potential for AI misuse and underscore the importance of ethical guidelines to protect privacy and ensure responsible use.

As educators we can teach students about privacy and responsible use.  The ISTE Standards for Educators emphasize teaching students to manage their digital identities, understand data collection, and maintain privacy. October, being cybersecurity month, provides an excellent opportunity to engage students in these discussions. In my classroom, I focus on teaching students practical ways to protect their data. This includes a guided tour of multifactor authentication and the importance of regular software updates. Multifactor authentication and encryption adds an extra layer of security by requiring multiple forms of verification, while software updates patch vulnerabilities, keeping systems secure. Following these discussions, students are introduced to a stimulus question where they apply their knowledge to analyze data collection, benefits, and harms, effects, and security or privacy concerns. 

By engaging in inquiry based activities, students deepen their understanding of the complex landscape of technology, honing their ability to assess both the advantages and disadvantages of privacy implications. This approach empowers students to critically evaluate modern technologies and understand the significance of data protection. Additionally, I have students participate in activities that encourage them to develop opinions on the privacy tradeoffs of today's AI tools. For instance, they watch a video on facial recognition technology, exploring the balance between convenience and privacy. Facial recognition technology offers numerous benefits, such as increased security and ease of access. Even as it simplifies processes, making them more convenient, the privacy concerns are significant.  As students explore these complex issues, they become more adept at recognizing the nuanced relationship between AI's conveniences and its privacy challenges.