The “Digital Ethics And Responsibilities (DEAR) Campaign for Higher Education and Beyond” is a pioneering initiative dedicated to creating and cultivating a culture of ethical and responsible digital engagement in higher education and the wider society. Led by Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU), this project is a collaboration with five partner universities in Hong Kong:
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)
- The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK)
- Lingnan University (LU)
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU)
- The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)
Funded by the University Grants Committee (UGC) through the Fund for Innovative Technology-in-Education (FITE), the DEAR Campaign aims to equip students, teachers, and the broader community with the knowledge and skills to navigate the digital world responsibly.
In an era where artificial intelligence (AI), big data, and digital learning analytics are transforming education, the ethical implications of these technologies have become a pressing concern. The rise of algorithmic decision-making, data privacy risks, and digital well-being challenges underscores the need for a framework that promotes responsible digital citizenship. The DEAR Campaign seeks to empower all stakeholders in the educational system – covering both students and teachers in higher education, and extending to secondary/primary schools and broader community – to make informed and responsible decisions in the digital world and realise the full potential of digital technologies in education while minimising the risks.
Our Mission
The DEAR Campaign aims to:
Why DEAR Matters
The rapid integration of digital technologies in education offers unparalleled opportunities for personalised learning, data-driven decision-making, and AI-assisted teaching and learning. However, without clear ethical guidelines, these advancements risk compromising privacy, amplifying biases, and eroding academic integrity.
By championing digital ethics and responsibilities, DEAR ensures that technological innovation aligns with fundamental human values, empowering students and educators to equip digital tools responsibly while minimising risks. As John O’Brien (2020) aptly stated, “Higher education can and must lead the way in addressing digital ethics.” DEAR is committed to leading this charge.
Join Us
Be part of the DEAR movement and help shape a future where technology serves humanity ethically and responsibly. Whether you’re a teacher, student, scholar, or industry professional, your voice matters in this crucial conversation