Tutorial one: Information technology and ethical issues

This tutorial provides an overview of information technology, how it is applied today and within Occupational therapy as well as the ethical implications.

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

Collins Concise dictionary states information technology is," The total knowledge and skills available in any given society." Basically to simplify that it is how information in our world is transmitted and then spread around.

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

Information technology is far more common place then you would think at first glance. If we consider every possible way information is spread in our world the list gets rather lengthy. Here are just a few,
Books
Power point presentations
Mobile phones
E Books
Hard drives
G.P.S Systems
Ipods
Gaming consoles
Email
You tube
Social networking sites

And the list goes on.

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

I believe that if you have the base knowledge on one system it installs confidence in using another. For example I have no problem using a social networking site which gives me experience and a benefit when it comes to setting up other web accounts.
Thinking about your own fieldwork experiences consider how IT is being used in Occupational Therapy practice?

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

Not only just in O.T but generally the working environment, IT is being used to create effective communication, a faster pace and more production. Specifically to O.T, emails are used to communicate between staff or team members, contact clients, applications for funding, documentation as well as most district health boards today starting the slow process of converting patient history to their databases. Cellphones and pagers are also used on the ward or to phone a patient at home for quicker communication and of course let’s not forget the telephone which is used for above purposes mentioned but also to contact equipment suppliers and families.

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

The most profound ethical implication that may arise from placing information on these I.T devices is the risk of it being shared with someone it shouldn't’t be. Here a few scenarios to consider:

-Putting your identity on a social networking site could be possibly dangerous as anyone in the world can access it.

-Working in the a medical profession, typing confidential notes and sending them to the wrong person

-Or using online banking and being hacked by someone else.


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 on 5th of June 2009 from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer_ethics

Provide a definition of Intellectual Property (APA reference required)


“Intellectual property (IP) are legal property rights over creations of the mind, both artistic and commercial, and the corresponding fields of law.”
Retreived on 5th of June 2009 from http://en.wikepedia.org/wiki/Intellectual_propertyProvide a definition of Social Justice (APA reference required)

Provide a definition of Social Justice (APA reference required)

“Social justice, sometimes called civil justice, refers to the concept of a society in which "justice" is achieved in every aspect of society, rather than merely the administration of law. It is generally thought of as a world which affords individuals and groups fair treatment and an impartial share of the benefits of society.”
Retrieved 5th June 2009 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 a clear appreciation and understanding of the facts, implications and future consequences of an action. In order to give informed consent, the individual concerned must have adequate reasoning faculties and be in possession of all relevant facts at the time consent is given. Impairments to reasoning and judgement which would make it impossible for someone to give informed consent include such factors as severe mental retardation, severe mental illness, intoxication, severe sleep deprivation, Alzheimer's disease, or being in a coma.”
Retrieved 5th June 2009 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.

I believe that it is of great importance to understand information technology and the ethical issues around us because it is swiftly becoming a large and normal part of practicing and our lives. By understanding it we can maximise its potential, use it effectively and stay safe at the same time