Introduction
In an increasingly digital world, ensuring the safety of personal information, particularly in educational settings, is of paramount importance. The International Center for Educational Research, or ICE, based in Minato City, Tokyo, has developed an innovative solution to mitigate data leaks in online tutoring environments. Their new
Alias System aims to protect students’ identities while still allowing seamless interaction in the academic setting. This initiative is set to be officially implemented at their flagship institution,
RETAQ Youth Academy, starting from the new academic semester in March 2023.
Background: The Importance of Personal Data Management in Online Tutoring
As education shifts towards online platforms, addressing the handling of personal information becomes a pressing issue. Online tutoring often involves various forms of communication and submissions that could potentially expose sensitive data. Recognizing this challenge, ICE has focused on a dual approach to minimize personal data usage in their educational processes.
Overview of the Alias System
The term "alias" refers to an alternative name, which in the context of the Alias System, enables students to interact in a secure manner without disclosing their real names. This system consists of two main components:
1.
Using Nicknames Instead of Real Names:
During classes and when submitting materials, students are required to use their nicknames. This ensures that personal details, such as real names and school affiliations, are not shared with instructors or peers, thereby significantly reducing the risk of information leaks. Any essential personal information needed for administrative procedures will be stored securely by the administration.
2.
AliasPort for Secure File Sharing:
All assignment submissions and document distributions will occur through a proprietary online file-sharing service known as
AliasPort. Unlike traditional file-sharing systems, AliasPort does not reveal any personal data such as email addresses to the other party, thus ensuring anonymity. Only files that have been verified for content integrity will be shared, and any irrelevant information will be withheld pending review.
For more detailed information about the Alias System, please visit
Alias System Page.
Enrollment & Consulting Services
RETAQ Youth Academy is currently accepting applications for the 2026 academic year. For students who enroll by March 31, 2026, the standard enrollment fee of 20,000 yen will be waived. Interested parties can contact the academy via the following link:
Contact RETAQ.
The academy also offers free online consultation services for prospective students regarding career paths and entrance exams. For questions related to general selection and recommendations, feel free to access their consulting services
here.
About RETAQ Youth Academy
Founded by experienced researchers from various domestic and international institutions, RETAQ Youth Academy specializes in comprehensive and recommendation-based entrance examinations. The academy provides holistic instruction, focusing on all aspects of the preparation process, including statement of purpose development, inquiry-based assignments, and interview coaching. It not only helps students achieve exam success but also cultivates their ability to think logically and express effectively. For more information, please visit the official website:
RETAQ Official Site.
About ICE
ICE is operated by the International Center for Educational Research. Located at 2-2-15 Hamamatsucho, Minato City, Tokyo, the organization is spearheaded by Miki Kumekawa. To learn more, visit
ICE's Website.