Wih the advent of smart cards, cards containing a microprocessor and memory, there are increasing proposals for establishment of a computerized national identification card system. The card could be used when interacting with government agencies and for any other transactions where a person's identify must be verified. This assignment will investigate how different countries have dealt with the national ID card scenario and the effects on the individuals privacy.

Goals for the activity:

To make student aware that the issue of privacy and national id cards is an international issue.

Student will develop:
• An international awarness of national id cards
• Pro's and Con's of the national id cards from multiple countries
• What countries have and do not have national id cards

• First Class:
• Discuss the basic premise of National ID Cards
• Discuss the US standpoint on National ID Cards
• Break students into groups of two or three.
• Assign each team a country (pick countries that you know have issues with National Id Cards, see www.privacy.org)
• Research:
• Between the two classes have the teams research their countries.
• Complete worksheet one.
• Create a 10 minute presentation based on the answers on worksheet one.
• Second Class:
• Each group presents their findings.
• While groups are presenting students are required to fill out worksheet two
• At the end of class place completed worksheet two on overhead and allow discussion (may want another class period)

Author contact information:
Professor Jennifer A. Polack-Wahl
Mary Washington University
1301 College Avenue
Fredericksburg, VA 22401
E-mail: polack@mwc.edu