Tutorial 1

Tutorial One: Information Technology and Ethical Issues

Provide a definition of Information Technology/Information Communications Technology (APA reference required)

"Information technology (IT), also known as Information and Communication(s) Technology (ICT) and Infocomm in Asia, is concerned with the use of technology in managing and processing information, especially in large organizations." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Information_Technology (5/3/08)


Consider the definition of IT you have provided. How is this form of technology prevalent in our society? How common place has it become?

Very common, most households now have some form of technology in which they know how to use. To own information technology items has now also become more of a need rather than a want.


What IT devices or system do you feel comfortable and competent using?

-Mobioe Phones
- Computers
- Digital cameras (both picture and video)
- ipod and MP3 players
- Internet


Thinking about your own fieldwork experiences consider how IT is being used in Occupational Therapy practice?

Gaining more knowledge on disorders of alternative treatments through the internet and through emailing others who may have more knowledge and undertstanding.
Computers allow electronic copies of patient notes to be kept.
Digital Cameras allow staff to take visual records to show improvement or deteriation.
Clients can use certain websites to contact others who may be in a similar position and be able to talk to them easier.


What ethical implications arise from the capturing, sharing and transferring of information via IT devices (e.g. mobile phones) or systems (e.g. internet)

Items on the internet are often available for anyone to access so privacy is severely limited.


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."

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer_ethics (5/3/08)


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."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intellectual_property (5/3/08)


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."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_justice (3/5/08)


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."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Informed_consent (5/3/08)


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.

You know where to access 'true' information and sort out the fakes, without getting yourself into trouble.