September 2003 — Special Feature
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Creating Safer and More Efficient Schools With Biometric Technologies
Another increasingly common application is the use of low-end biometric identification systems to authenticate users on educational networks in place of the traditional use of passwords. This involves using relatively inexpensive peripheral fingerprint readers that connect to existing computers, or finding one of the few manufacturers that have started integrating such readers into their products.
Still, the greatest potential for biometrics in enhancing the school environment is in providing access control, positive identification and a record of those entering and leaving school buildings. Some higher education institutions and a handful of K-12 schools from around the world have implemented comprehensive access control and identification systems using biometrics (Nixon 2003; Johnson & Wales University's Media Center 2002).
Maturing Technology
Biometric technology has matured considerably in the last five years, with accuracy rates going up and costs coming down. Iris-recognition systems may have the highest reliability rate (with some manufacturers claiming accuracy in excess of 99%) and, like the less accurate fingerprint authentication systems, have now reached commodity-level pricing. Thus, it has become realistic to consider implementing biometrics on a systemwide basis in schools. It is also undeniable that a reliable access control and identification system combined with effective entry policies will substantially enhance the security of any school environment.
With an increased emphasis on safety and accountability in schools, biometric technology will become de rigueur in the coming decade. Privacy concerns may put a damper on acceptance rates, but should not prevent this technology from reaching its full potential in security enhancements. Educational institutions already hold responsibility for various sensitive data such as social security numbers and special needs information. Biometric systems simply add extra identifying information to this cache of personal data.
Hopefully, with the continued implementation of such systems, fears of identifying information misuse will be offset by the benefit of enhanced accountability, along with the observation of proper precautions to ensure such information is not used inappropriately or disclosed to third parties.
"Bridging" technologies also exist, such as systems based on identification cards with bar code, magnetic or "smart card" capabilities. Schools that do not yet have the community or financial support needed for a biometric system can look at enhancing security through such systems as an interim step. But, basic card identification systems may be susceptible to unauthorized reproduction and have limited functionality.
The most sophisticated nonbiometric identification systems use smart cards, which are cards embedded with a small programmable chip. These cards can hold a substantial amount of data and can be reprogrammed or recharged depending on the application. Though, the system has the inherent weakness that cards can be damaged, lost, stolen or used by others. Biometric systems overcome this concern, however, as users carry their unique identifying characteristics with them at all times.
