As a student enrolled in Data Privacy and Protection Management, I reflected on my experience using the new online enrollment system and assessed its strengths and weaknesses in terms of user experience, security, and data privacy. As an IT and Computer Science student, I focused not only on how easy the system was to use but also on how it handled personal data, system security, and overall user experience. While the system was functional and allowed me to complete my enrollment, there are several areas where improvements can be made, particularly in terms of data privacy and protection.
When I first accessed the enrollment system through its official link, I noticed that the interface was simple and straightforward. The layout was clean, and the purpose of the site was immediately clear. There was a login button visible on the page, which made it easy to know where to begin. However, I felt that the placement of the login button could still be improved. It was positioned too low on the page and quite far from the “Enrollment System” heading. From a user interface perspective, it would be better if the login button were closer to the title or more centrally located so that users can immediately associate it with the system’s main function.
Upon clicking the login button, I was directed to the login form. While the form itself was simple, the design had some issues that affected readability. The background of the login form appeared to be transparent, which caused some text elements to blend into the background. In particular, the “Remember Me” option was not very readable because the font color seemed to camouflage with the background color. As a user, this made it slightly difficult to notice and understand the option. Improving color contrast and font visibility would greatly enhance accessibility and overall user experience.
During one of my login attempts, I encountered a server error. I tried to log in to my account, but the system did not allow access at that time. When I attempted to log in again shortly after, the error no longer appeared, and I was able to access my account successfully. Although the issue was resolved quickly, this experience raised concerns about system reliability. Since enrollment systems are often accessed by many users at the same time, especially during peak periods, server stability is very important. Even temporary errors can cause confusion, delays, and stress for students who are trying to complete time sensitive transactions.
After successfully logging in, I was redirected to the dashboard or landing page. This page displayed my ID number, full name, email address, and even the email password associated with my account. From a data privacy standpoint, this was one of the most concerning parts of my experience. Displaying sensitive information such as passwords on the dashboard poses a serious security risk. Even if the password shown is a default password, it should never be visible in plain text. If someone else were to see the screen or gain access to my account, this information could easily be misused.
In my opinion, sensitive information should be placed in a separate profile or account settings section, with proper access controls in place. Passwords should be hidden and only changeable, not viewable. This practice follows basic data privacy principles such as confidentiality and protection against unauthorized access, which are core topics discussed in ITSC 7126. The current setup suggests that data protection was not fully prioritized during the system’s design.
Another limitation I observed is the lack of strong security features. The system does not offer two factor authentication or any additional security layer beyond the standard username and password. In today’s digital environment, where data breaches and account compromises are common, relying solely on single factor authentication is not enough. Adding two factor authentication, such as a one time code sent through email or SMS, would significantly improve account security and protect student data.
Despite these concerns, the system also has several positive aspects. The interface is generally easy to understand, and the enrollment process itself is simple and well organized. The steps were clear, and the flow of the enrollment process was easy to follow. Instructions and guidelines were provided beforehand, which helped reduce confusion and made the process smoother. The courses were already displayed on the system, making it easy for me to select the appropriate subjects without unnecessary searching.
My overall enrollment experience was positive because I was able to complete the process without major difficulty. After advising was completed, I received an email notification confirming that step, which was helpful and reassuring. However, I believe the communication can still be improved. It would be better if the system also sent an official confirmation email stating that I am fully enrolled, along with a digital copy of my Certificate of Registration. This would provide clearer documentation and reduce the need for follow up inquiries.
From an IT and Computer Science student’s perspective, there are several improvements that can be implemented to enhance the system. These include improving the user interface design for better readability, strengthening data privacy by properly handling sensitive information, implementing two factor authentication for better security, and improving server stability to avoid errors during high traffic periods. Adding features such as online payment options and complete enrollment confirmation emails would also improve the overall user experience.
In conclusion, my experience with the new online enrollment system was generally positive in terms of usability and functionality. I was able to enroll successfully, and the process was efficient. However, when viewed through the lens of data privacy and protection, there are clear areas that need improvement. Addressing these issues would not only enhance system security but also build greater trust among users. As a student taking ITSC 7126 Data Privacy and Protection Management, I believe that prioritizing data privacy and system security is essential for any platform that handles personal and sensitive information. Ultimately, these improvements would help ensure a safer, more reliable, and student centered enrollment system.