Tutorial One: Information Technology and Ethical Issues

Provide a definition of Information Technology/Information Communications Technology (APA reference required) "...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 technology has become very commonplace and it is expected that people have all the gadgets for 'survival.' At schools they expect pupils to have access to the internet, computers, cellphones, email and all that comes with these technologies. Some schools have set up text systems to inform pupils of sports cancellations, upcoming events etc. Assignments are expected to be typed up and handed in that way rather than hand written. It is more commonly used in younger generations however most workplaces have adopted the use of technology for advertising, communication etc.

What IT devices or system do you feel comfortable and competent using? I am comfortable using computers, cellphones, iPods, laptops, cameras and video cameras. In terms of computer programs I am comfortable with most Microsoft Office programs. I use the internet easily and have my own Bebo site. I am a member of an online music site (Yahoo! music) and use iTunes.

Thinking about your own fieldwork experiences consider how IT is being used in Occupational Therapy practice? It was used on my first placement for typing up notes so that they look more professional and the therapist could work from a saved template. Some wards had computers that were for the clients to use as this was an activity that some of the inpatients enjoyed using.

What ethical implications arise from the capturing, sharing and transferring of information via IT devices (e.g. mobile phones) or systems (e.g. internet) Some people don't like their image being used as evidence of something or as an example, for a number of reasons, mostly around identifying themselves and the fact that when the image is public anyone can use it, for anything. This can be very scary, especially if it is put on the internet. Also information can get passed on so quickly today that an email or text message can be forwarded in seconds to someone else, possibly not who the sender intended it to go to. Often people don't ask for permission to re-send these things either. So getting permission properly is a big ethical thing.

Provide a definition of Computer Ethics (APA reference required) "Computer ethics is a set of moral principles that regulate the use of computers. Some common issues of computer ethics include intellectual property rights (such as copyrighted electronic content), privacy concerns and how computers affect society." Retrieved May 15, 2008, from http://www.techterms.com/

Provide a definition of Intellectual Property (APA reference required) "...Refers to the ownership of intangible and non-physical goods. This includes ideas, names, designs, symbols, artwork, writings and other creations. it also refers to digital media, such as audio and video clips that can be downloaded online." Retrieved May 15, 2008, from http://www.techterms.com/

Provide a definition of Social Justice (APA reference required) "Fair and proper administration of laws conforming to the natural law that all persons, irrespective of their ethnic origin, gender, possessions, race, religion etc., are treated equally and without prejudice." Retrieved May 15, 2008, from http://www.businessdictionary.com/

Provide a definition of Informed Consent (APA reference required) "Consent given with full nowledge of the risks involved, probable consequences, and the alternatives." Retrieved May 15, 2008, from http://www.businessdictionary.com/

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. Having an understanding of ITC is beneficial in our practice as O.T's as there are many issues we face with clients about ethics, social justice and informed consent. Thinking about these in relation to information technology is useful as we use technology all the time now and should always keep a check that everything we are doing is above board. It is helpful for our clients to get educated on using some technology as it is a very much apart of our world today. In my daily life it is good to have an understanding of ITC issues because I use technology all the time as a part of my course, at my work, and in my personal leisure time.