Ethics and information technology

Tutorial One: Information Technology and Ethical Issues

Provide a definition of Information Technology/Information Communications Technology (APA reference required)
Information technology (IT) n. the production, storage and communication of information using computers and microelectronics.

Hanks, P. (ed.) (1989) concise English dictionary. Glasgow: Bath press.
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 is extremely prevalent in today's society with most people in the western world being exposed to it everyday. IT can be found in Eftpos machines, cellphones, computers (internet, banking, everyday shopping).

What IT devices or system do you feel comfortable and competent using?
I feel competent and comfortable using computers, digital cameras, Eftpos machines, computer based till systems.

Thinking about your own fieldwork experiences consider how IT is being used in Occupational Therapy practice?
Networks are used in hospitals to connect the various team members and share information. Pagers are used to connect with team members when needed either through phone messages, emailing etc. cellphones are used to connect the therapists with the hospital at all times.

What ethical implications arise from the capturing, sharing and transferring of information via IT devices (e.g. mobile phones) or systems (e.g. internet)
There is a chance that the information is availible to other members who do not need to access it. Cellphones can interupt sessions.

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.
retreived 29/05/2007 from: httm://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 names, written and recorded media, and inventions. The holders of these legal entitlements are 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, though the term is a matter of some controversy
retrieved 29/05/2007 from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intellectual_Property

Provide a definition of Social Justice (APA reference required)
Social justice refers to conceptions of a just society, where "justice" refers to more than just 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. Different proponents of social justice have developed different interpretations of what constitutes fair treatment and a just share.
retreived 29/05/2007 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. The individual needs to be in possession of relevant facts and also of his 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.
retreived 29/05/2007 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.
It will help us to make our professional and personal lifes more effeicient and ensure we do not disclose or create any information which other people may be offended or hurt by.