What does "access" mean in the context of education records?

In the context of education records, "access" refers specifically to the right to inspect and review records. This means that students and their eligible parents have the ability to examine the education records maintained by the institution. Access allows individuals to see firsthand what information is being kept, ensuring transparency and enabling them to understand the content and context of their records.

This right to inspect and review is a fundamental part of educational privacy laws, which aim to protect students while also giving them the opportunity to be informed about their own educational data. It ensures that students can hold educational institutions accountable by checking their records for accuracy and completeness.

While obtaining copies, deleting records, or requesting changes to records are important rights under various circumstances, they are not what "access" specifically entails. Access is primarily about the ability to see and understand what is documented, rather than the actions that can be taken regarding those records.