Tutorial 1 - Information Technology and Ethical Issues

Information Technology (IT), also known as Information and Communication(s) Technology (ICT), is the production, storage and communication of information using computers and microelectronics.

Hanks, P. (ed). (1989) Collins Concise Dictionary. Glasgow: Bath Press

Technology has become very common place in our society. Even today the older generation that were not brought up around the new forms of technology may still be found using them. These days it is pretty much expected that everyone has certain pieces of technology such as cellphones.Technology that falls under the definition of Information Technology include such things as; computers, phones, i-pods, DVD's, Nintendo Wii's, satelites.

The IT devices that i feel comfortable and competent using are; cellphones, mp3 players, computers including systems such as the internet and email systems, televisions (although I don't watch much TV anymore) and DVD players.

IT is used considerably in the Occuaptional Therapy practice and it is continuing to grow. Email systems are vastly used to communicate between other team members, suppliers, clients and other industries. Mobile phones are often used, especially in community setting when therapists leave the building on home visits. It is a point of safety. Communication devices are used to interact with clients who my struggle to hear. Other technologies include equipment that have been designed to help clients, eg. hoists.

There are ethical implications around the capturing, sharing and transferring of information via IT devices such as mobile phones and systems such as the internet. Privacy is a major ethical implication. Information that is sent across such devices and systems can at any point be viewed by others if appropriate protection is not put in place. Accountability is another issue where information can be skewed by people. Anonymity can be good but also has it's negatives, such as on social networks where people can give a false identity.

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

Retrieved March 02, 2009, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer_ethics

Intellectual property 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 the entitlements get various rights in relation to the subject matter.

Retrieved March 02, 2009, from, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intellectual_property

Social justice is a concept in society where "justice" is achieved in all avenues of society not just the 'law.' All individuals get fair treatment and just share of the benefits of society.

Retrieved March, 02, 2009, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_justice

Informed consent is a legal condition where a person gives consent based on the understanding and appreciation for the facts and the implications of the action in which they are consenting for.

Retrieved March, 02, 2009, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Informed_consent

Having and understanding of ITC and ethical issues it encompasses will help us in our practice and daily lives because, technology is always advancing and is becoming more common place. Thus having that understanding is important as ITC is used a lot within the Occupational Therapy practice. Not only understanding about the technologies themselves but understanding the ethical issues is important in maintaining client's privacy and confidentiality.