The Role of Trust in Personal Data Sharing in the Context of e-Assessment and the Moderating Effect of Special Educational Needs

Abstract

The current study investigated the role of trust in students' attitudes towards personal data sharing in the context of e-assessment, and whether this is different for students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). SEND students were included as a special target group because they may feel more dependent on e-assessment technologies, and thus, more easily consent to personal data sharing. A mixed methods research design was adopted combining an online survey and a focus group interview to collect quantitative and qualitative data. The findings suggest that a considerable number of students trust e-assessment technology that does not require the physical presence of a supervisor. Students who trust are more likely to perceive e-assessment technology as having no disadvantages, and are more willing to share their personal data for e-assessment purposes. The responses of SEND and non-SEND students do not differ significantly in terms of trust. However, the results diverge regarding the relation between trust and perception of e-assessment technology as having no disadvantages. Practical implications for informed consent are discussed.