Introduction
When learners complete digital training courses, data is automatically generated: names, progress, test results. But what happens to this information? Data protection is a sensitive issue, especially in Europe—not least because of the GDPR. In this article, you will learn what you need to consider when creating and delivering e-learning courses.
Why data protection is important
- Building trust: Learners need to know what happens to their data
- Legal protection: Companies are liable for violations of data protection rules
- Protecting your image: Data breaches damage your reputation
- Mandatory rather than optional: GDPR -compliant learning is mandatory in many industries
Data protection is not an obstacle – it is a prerequisite.
– Marie Schneider, IT compliance consultant
Basics: GDPR & E-Learning
The GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) applies to all companies and educational institutions that process personal data in the EU. In the context of digital training, this particularly affects:
- Names, email addresses, IP addresses
- Time stamps (start, end, processing time)
- Results of tests, interactions, feedback
- Learning behavior (clicks, dropouts, repetitions)
What you need to pay attention to specifically
| Area | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Data minimization |
Only collect data that is really necessary |
| Purpose limitation | Only use data for training purposes – not for monitoring |
| Consent | Inform participants transparently about data collection |
| Deletion periods | Automatically delete data after the retention period has expired |
| Access rights | Only authorized persons may access reports |
| Contract with service providers | e.g., order processing contract with LMS providers |
How Lessonator supports data protection
- No personal data required: You can also provide courses anonymously
- xAPI and SCORM compliant – no uncontrolled data storage
- Hosting on German servers possible (depending on LMS)
- No hidden disclosure to third parties – full control over course content
Practical tips
- Provide a privacy policy directly in the course
- Use pseudonyms or IDs if names are not required
- Avoid unnecessary tracking data
- Check regularly whether your course or LMS has to meet new requirements
Conclusion
Data protection and digital learning are not mutually exclusive – quite the contrary. With transparent communication, clear rules, and a GDPR-compliant tool such as Lessonator, you can demonstrate that responsibility is part of teaching. This ensures that your employees not only learn effectively, but also securely.