Tutorial One: Information Technology and Ethical Issues

Provide a definition of Information Technology/Information Communications Technology (APA reference required) “Information Technology (IT), as defined by the Information Technology Association of America (ITAA), is "the study, design, development, implementation, support or management of computer-based information systems, particularly software applications and computer hardware." IT deals with the use of electronic computers and computer software to convert, store, protect, process, transmit, and securely retrieve information.” Retrieved from www.wikipedia.org on 04 June 2008

Consider the definition of IT you have provided. How is this form of technology prevalent in our society? How common place has it become? It has become very common in today’s society “IT professionals perform a variety of duties that range from installing applications to designing complex computer networks and information databases” Retrieved from www.wikipedia.org on 04 June 2008 I.T helps to; produce, manipulate, store, communicate, and/or disseminate information. Computers and information are linked

What IT devices or system do you feel comfortable and competent using? I feel competent and comfortable using computers in a basic manner, such as sending an email and research. Flash sticks Online shopping

Thinking about your own fieldwork experiences consider how IT is being used in Occupational Therapy practice? Communication devices (microphone attached to wheelchair) Computer used to do research Driving simulators Client database-client notes, appointments Digital cameras; Images used for teaching purposes. Eg: step by step visual instructions.

What ethical implications arise from the capturing, sharing and transferring of information via IT devices (e.g. mobile phones) or systems (e.g. internet) Copyright Once an image or email is sent there is no way to retrieve if accidentally sent Inappropriate images displayed on the internet Privacy

Provide a definition of Computer Ethics (APA reference required) “Computer ethics is a branch of practical philosophy which deals with how computing professionals should make decisions regarding professional and social conduct. The term "computer ethics" was first coined by Walter Maner[1] in the mid-1970s, but only since the 1990s has it started being integrated into professional development programs in academic settings. The conceptual foundations of computer ethics are investigated by information ethics, a branch of philosophical ethics established by Luciano Floridi. Computer ethics is a very important topic in computer applications. The importance of computer ethics increased through the 1990s. With the growth of the Internet, privacy issues as well as concerns regarding computing technologies such as spyware and web browser cookies have called into question ethical behavior in technology.” Retrieved from www.wikipedia.org on 04 June 2008

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 artistic works; inventions; and symbols, names, images, and designs used in commerce, including copyrights, trademarks, patents, and related rights. Under intellectual property law, the holder of one of these abstract "properties" has certain exclusive rights to the creative work, commercial symbol, or invention by which it is covered. Retrieved from www.wikipedia.org on 04 June 2008

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. (Different proponents of social justice have developed different interpretations of what constitutes fair treatment and an impartial share.) It can also refer to the distribution of advantages and disadvantages within a society. Retrieved from www.wikipedia.org on 04 June 2008

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 understanding of the facts and implications of an action. The individual needs to be in possession of relevant facts and also of his or her reasoning faculties, such as not being mentally retarded or mentally ill and without an impairment of judgment at the time of consenting. Such impairments might include illness, intoxication, insufficient sleep, and other health problems. Retrieved from www.wikipedia.org on 04 June 2008

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. An understanding of ITC and ethical issues we will be enable us to use these technologies correctly and comfortably and help us to make appropriate decisions when using these technologies. With knowledge we are able to have a clear understanding of the impact on our actions. It allows us to stay confidential when appropriate.