Tutorial One: Information Technology and Ethical Issues

Tutorial One: Information Technology and Ethical Issues

Provide a definition of Information Technology/Information Communications Technology (APA reference required)

The use of computers, telecommunication, etc in electronic processing, storing, retrieving and sending information.

Allen, R. (consultant editor). (2004). The penguin english dictionary. London: Penguin Books


Consider the definition of IT you have provided. How is this form of technology prevalent in our society? How common place has it become?

We use IT in our everyday lives. It has become very common place as more and more people are starting to use this technology at school and work. We have come to rely on it to communicate with family and friends all over the world.


What IT devices or system do you feel comfortable and competent using?

Computers
Mobile Phone
Ipods
Iphones
Camera’s – Digital, video
E-mail


Thinking about your own fieldwork experiences consider how IT is being used in Occupational Therapy practice?

Camera’s were used to take photo’s of a place that needs to be modified e.g. have ramps installed, have wet area shower installed.
Computers were used to order equipment from enable through e-mails or search through patients files to find there past medical history
Phones were used to ring clients to book appointments with them or find out information that we needed to know.


What ethical implications arise from the capturing, sharing and transferring of information via IT devices (e.g. mobile phones) or systems (e.g. internet)

Have to get informed consent from the people you are taking photos of to ensure they don’t mind it.
Anyone can change or access the information that we put on the internet.


Provide a definition of Computer Ethics (APA reference required)

Computer ethics is a branch of practical philosophy which deals with how computing professinals should make decisions regarding professional and social conduct.

Retrieved February 14, 2007, from
http//en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer_ethics

Provide a definition of Intellectual Property (APA reference required)

Intellectual property (IP) is a legal field that refers to creations of the mind such as musical, literary and artisitc works; inventions, and symbols, names, images and designs used in commerce, including copyrights, trademarks, patents and related rights.

Retrieved May 18, 2008, from
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intellectual_property

Provide a definition of Social Justice (APA reference required)

Social justice refers to the concept of a society in which justice is achieved in every aspect of society, rather than merely the administration of law. It is generally thought of as a world which affords individuals and groups fair treatment and an impartial share of the benefits of society.

Retrieved May 28, 2008, from
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_justice

Provide a definition of Informed Consent (APA reference required)

Informed consent is a legal condition whereby a person can be said to have given consent based upon an appreciation and understaning of the facts and implications of an action.

Retrieved May 18, 2008, from
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infromed_consent


In your own words briefly summarise why (or why not) a great understanding of ITC and the ethical issues it encompasses will help us in our practice and daily lives.

ITC is used all the time now, so understanding what it is and means will help us get jobs as many jobs today use computers etc
There is a risk of people breaching confidentialty and also with hackers trying to read your e-mails etc.