Tutorial One: Information Technology and Ethical Issues

Provide a definition of Information Technology/Information Communications Technology (APA reference required) Information Technology noun the use of computers, telecommunications, 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? This form of technology (information technology) is increasingly prevalent in society. Our whole existence as a western society depends on information technology, computers and other such devices. Over the last few years technology has become very commonplace.

What IT devices or system do you feel comfortable and competent using? · Computers · Laptops · Flash drives · Cell phones · CDs · CD-ROMs · DVDs · Digital Cameras

Thinking about your own fieldwork experiences consider how IT is being used in Occupational Therapy practice? In OT practice, IT is used for a variety of different ways. It can be used as a means for recording notes on clients online secure files or a way to record items such as photos of events or situations as well as videos.

What ethical implications arise from the capturing, sharing and transferring of information via IT devices (e.g. mobile phones) or systems (e.g. internet) Ethically, information capturing, sharing and transferring is a nightmare. Any thing that is can be used for anything by anyone.

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

Provide a definition of Intellectual Property (APA reference required) In law, intellectual property (IP) is an umbrella term for various legal entitlements which attach to certain types of information, ideas, or other intangibles in their expressed form. The holder of this legal entitlement is generally entitled to exercise various exclusive rights in relation to the subject matter of the IP. The term intellectual property reflects the idea that this subject matter is the product of the mind or the intellect, and that IP rights may be protected at law in the same way as any other form of property. However, the use of the term and the concepts it is said to embody are the subject of some controversy. Retrieved February 14, 2007, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intellectual_property

Provide a definition of Social Justice (APA reference required Social justice mostly refers to an ideal of society, where "justice" refers to economic status rather than to the administration of laws. It is based on the idea of a society which gives individuals and groups fair treatment and a just share of the benefits of society, although what is "fair treatment" and a "just share" must remain unclear or subject to interpretation. Retrieved February 14, 2007, 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 understanding of the facts and implications of an action. Retrieved February 14, 2007, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Informed_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. Like it or not, technology is a large part of our society. We need to understand how technology works as many parts of our lives depend on technology. Technology can be a great help in our practice and our lives but we must be careful not to over use or abuse it.