Written Question · S1W-24278 · Session 1
Whether the information gathered through the Scottish Exchange for Education Data will be used solely for statistical purposes or whether i…
The question
To ask the Scottish Executive whether the information gathered through the Scottish Exchange for Education Data will be used solely for statistical purposes or whether information identifiable to individuals will be held and, if the latter, what mechanisms will be put in place in order to ensure individual confidentiality; how it will ensure that any such mechanisms are transparent and that the use of such information is open to challenge by the individuals to whom it relates, and how such individuals will be able to make themselves aware that their individual record had been consulted.
The answer
The Scottish Executive will use data collected through the Scottish Exchange of Educational Data (ScotXed) project for statistical and research purposes, to inform the development, implementation and monitoring of policy. The Scottish Executive will not use any personal information collected through ScotXed to support decisions or actions in relation to specific individuals. The Scottish Executive will fully comply with the Data Protection Act in the collection, processing and storing of information relating to individuals. The Scottish Executive will also comply with the National Statistics Code of Practice, in the use of ScotXed information, to safeguard confidentiality of individuals. The Scottish Executive will not publish information on individuals, nor shall we make any use of names or other personal details beyond technical and administrative checks to ensure the completeness and accuracy of data.ScotXed is a partnership of the Scottish Executive Education Department with local authorities, schools, the Scottish Qualifications Authority, HM Inspectorate of Education and Learning and Teaching Scotland to promote the electronic exchange of educational information to common standards. The project will provide better quality information and link-ups between education partners in Scotland, and will encourage the good use of management information by schools and education authorities.Other organisations within the ScotXed partnership, will make use of the information gathered through ScotXed for administrative and management purposes and to improve the education of pupils.The multiple use of the same information, much of which already exists on school systems, by different ScoXed partners, will reduce bureaucratic burdens on schools to meet multiple demands for information.All ScotXed partners are responsible for ensuring compliance with the Data Protection Act when dealing with information relating to individuals.
In the Official Report
No contribution in the Official Report cites S1W-24278 by reference.