GW Faculty Recording Guidance

Genio (formerly known as Glean), is a comprehensive study and note-taking tool that helps students capture and learn from lectures. The platform records audio and syncs it with a student’s timestamped notes. After class, the student can expand on their notes by using Genio’s AI features to create a transcription of the lecture, generate study outlines, and build custom quizzes.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, GW offers Genio as an auxiliary aid to students with documented disabilities. The Genio application supports students by allowing them to audio record lectures and class discussions for later review, thereby promoting equal access to educational content. You can read more about the Genio application on Genio's Faculty FAQ page.

Is recording a class allowed under the law?

Recording audio of a class is permitted in Washington D.C. and Virginia under their "one-party consent" laws. A student in class is considered a participant in the class “conversation,” and as a participant may record the class without consent from the other participants (this includes the faculty member). Unlike D.C. and Virginia, Maryland is subject to a “two-party consent” law. Accordingly, GW does not offer Genio for use in any class that takes place in Maryland.

Why is GW using Genio instead of a simple recording application?

Genio has been selected over other recording applications because it offers students an all-in-one study tool beyond simple audio capture. Unlike standard audio recorders, Genio combines recording with interactive note-taking, transcription, and AI-powered study features designed to improve learning outcomes described above. Furthermore, Genio includes enhanced data privacy and security features and restrictions related to the sharing of recordings. In particular, Genio does not allow a user to download a recording or the notes taken through the application. Additional information on Genio security features can be found on Genio’s Security page.

Was the Genio application evaluated for security and privacy concerns?

The Genio application and afferent contract documents were reviewed by GW’s Privacy Office, GW Information Security, GW Risk Management, and Office of General Counsel. Specifically, Genio was assessed by GW Information Security Team and Privacy Office, and has been deemed to meet GW’s standards for privacy and information security. Genio does not sell or share personal data or recorded content. Additionally, Genio does not use university data to train its AI model (Genio AI FAQ).

Can students download, export, or otherwise share class recordings made with Genio?

No. Genio does not provide users with the option to share or download their audio recordings outside of the Genio platform. Recordings are only available through use of the Genio application.

How long can students access their recordings?

Students approved for use of Genio have access to their course audio recordings for the duration of their enrollment at GW. When a student graduates or is no longer enrolled at GW, their access to the Genio account is deactivated, and all associated data and recordings are queued for permanent deletion. DSS reviews inactive user accounts and their academic status at the end of each semester. DSS removes all accounts for those who have graduated.

Is the instructor notified that a class is being recorded by a student using Genio?

Yes. If a student requests and is approved for the note-taking accommodation, the faculty member will receive an email notification from DSS confirming the student’s approved accommodations for that course, including use of Genio.

To promote transparency and foster trust in the learning environment, faculty members are encouraged to notify the class (without identifying the student using Genio) that class may be recorded. The faculty could include a statement in their course syllabus, such as:

“This class may be audio recorded at times to provide disability-related accommodations. Class recordings are for personal educational use only and should not be shared or used for non-course related purposes unless express permission has been granted by the instructor. Students who impermissibly share any electronic course materials or class recordings are subject to discipline under the Student Code of Conduct.”

What if a faculty member has privacy or intellectual property concerns with Genio class recordings?

DSS respects and understands that an instructor may have concerns related to privacy and intellectual property. 

From time to time, it is understood that courses may involve discussion of sensitive topics,  personal reflections and self-disclosures, or confidential discussions as part of the class. We recognize the concern that having a recording may inhibit participants from sharing freely or would risk anonymity. In these cases, if the subject matter and discussions are not appropriate for any student to record or take notes, then it is be appropriate for the faculty member to make a general announcement to the entire class and ask all students to not or to stop note taking and turn off any recording devices.

Could class recordings fundamentally change course learning objectives? What if a faculty member believes Genio class recordings are not appropriate for the structure or content of their course?

Accommodations should not fundamentally alter the essential requirements of a course or program. Essential requirements are the core skills, knowledge, and competencies that all students must demonstrate, which are tied to program and degree outcomes. If a faculty member is concerned that use of Genio recordings may conflict with these requirements, they may contact DSS at dssgwu [dot] edu (dss[at]gwu[dot]edu) to begin a Fundamental Alteration Analysis.

This process is a structured review that considers the purpose of the course, what skills or knowledge are being measured in the course, and whether the accommodation would lower academic standards or unfairly advantage a student. It also looks at whether alternative accommodations (e.g. providing the respective students with copies of course materials/lecture notes, or providing current course recordings, etc.) could meet the student’s needs without altering course objectives. Final determinations involve a collaborative discussion with faculty, DSS, and academic leadership to ensure both equal access and academic integrity.