In an era where data shapes everything, from what we see online to how organizations make decisions, understanding data security, privacy, and ethics is no longer optional. It’s essential.
At Portland State University’s School of Business, BTA 428: Data Security, Privacy, and Ethics challenges students to go beyond theory. The course is writing-intensive by design, pushing students to think critically about real-world issues and communicate their perspectives clearly, just as they would in a professional setting.
This year, students were asked to create publishable, LinkedIn- or Substack-style essays, work they can share with employers, include in portfolios, and use to demonstrate their ability to engage with complex, high-stakes topics.
“The goal is to help students move beyond academic writing and into professional voice,” says professor Erica Wagner. “They’re not just learning concepts, they’re learning how to contribute to real conversations happening in business and technology.”
“Strong communication is one of the most valuable skills our students can bring into their careers,” Wagner adds. “This assignment helps them show, not just say, what they’re capable of.”
Below are excerpts from a selection of standout student work.
Algorithms, Influence, and Responsibility
Andy Wu
“Algorithms do not just reflect user preferences, they shape them. They influence what people pay attention to, what they believe, who they trust, and how they understand the world around them.”
Wu’s piece challenges the assumption that social media platforms are neutral tools, arguing instead that their design choices actively shape public discourse. By focusing on incentives and transparency, he highlights the ethical responsibility organizations carry when building systems that influence behavior at scale.
Download Andy’s Paper (PDF).
The Cost of Digital Fandom
Shelly Espinoza
“What is the cost of being engaged? It is your data.”
Espinoza explores the ecosystem of Weverse, a fan–artist platform, to examine how deeply integrated digital experiences collect and leverage user data. Her work highlights the trade-offs between connection and privacy, and the growing power of collective user accountability in shaping platform behavior.
Download Shelly’s Paper (PDF).
Dark Patterns and the Illusion of Consent
Thomas Rice
“By definition, we have consented, but did we actually know what we were accepting?”
Rice investigates how interface design influences user decisions, focusing on “dark patterns” that steer users toward data sharing. His essay reframes consent as something often engineered rather than freely given, raising important questions about ethics, trust, and long-term business risk.
Download Thomas’s Paper (PDF).
Why This Work Matters
Assignments like these reflect a broader shift in business education, one that prioritizes not just technical knowledge, but ethical reasoning, communication, and real-world application.
By the time students leave BTA 428, they don’t just understand data ethics, they have tangible work that demonstrates their thinking, their voice, and their readiness to contribute to a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
More Information on the Business Analytics program.