Information Technology & Ethical Issues

According to the Collins Concise Dictionary (1989) , technology is defined as the production, storage & communication of information using computers & micro-electrics. This form of technology is prevalent in our society. It is unavoidable these days. Technology is used in business, homes, education and many many more. People today, are growing up with technology and become comfortable and competent in using it. I am comfortable using cell phones, computers, camera, tv, radio, photocopiers/faxers, ipods.

Information Technology is being used in Occupational Therapy as a tool for communication. Therapists can email other therapists, their supervisors, business etc. Computers are used in OT as it gives the therapist access to the internet, to board websites, research. Cameras are used in OT for documenting, commuincation. Nearly everything IT is or could be used in Occupational Therapy, it gives us contact with the wider world and a spread of information.

When capturing, sharing or transferring via IT devices, it is important to be aware of ethical issues. If somebody is in the photo you have taken, do you have consent from them to show that photo to other people? It is important to remember ethics when it comes to IT.

Computer Ethics is the analysis of the nature and social impact of computer technology and the corresponding formulation and justification of policies for the ethical use of such technology (Moor, 1985, p. 1).

According to Bynum and Rogerson (2004) digitalized Intellectual Property is software, databases, music, videos, films, literature, artworks and educational resources. Intellectual property is easiily copied, altered or transferred across the internet.

Bynum and Rogerson (2004) also state that Social Justice requires the society develops policies and practices that include people who have limited access to internet resources.

Informed Consent is a legal condition where a person can be said to have given consent based upon an appreciation and understanding of the facts and implications of an action (Sunderland, 2010)

A greater understanding of ITC and the ethical issues it encompasses will help us in our practice and in our daily lives as it will allow is to safely communicate. Being aware of ethics and being able to relate that to IT is important.