Tutorial one: Information Technology and Ethical issues

Provide a definition of Information Technology: "the study, design, development, implementation, support or management of computer-based information systems, particularly software applications and computer hardware",
Retrieved 27th May 2010, from (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Information_technology)

Information Communication Technology: Information and Communication Technology or ICTs[1] allow users to participate in a rapidly changing world in which work and other activities are increasingly transformed by access to varied and developing technologies.
Retrieved 27th May 2010 from(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Information_and_communication_technologies)

Consider the definition of IT you have provided. How is this form of technology prevalent in our society? how common place has it become?
Technology is prevalent in our society as we are always after faster and easier ways to communicate or get information. It has become common place as nearly all familys have a household computer and most have their own individual cellphone.

What It devices or systems do you feel comfortable and competent using?
Having grown up with technology ive seen and experienced the change in stereos, computers, tape players to dvd players, all gaming systems and celphones. I feel comfortable using any kind of technology and if I didnt know how to use something I would just keep playing around until I did.

Thinking about your own fieldwork experiences consider how IT is being used in occupational Therapy practice?
On my fieldwork one my supervisor relied on her cfellphone and bluetooth to get in cntact with other staff or clients whilst on the road. Also the use of computers for reports, all had their own computers and cellphone.

What ethical implications arise from the capturing, sharing and transfring of information via IT devices?
Privacy issues around whether or not the object or personis allowed to be captured on camera. copyright, if they are allowed to have ownership of the image. Confidentiality making sure sending information to the right person and that they know to not show it anyone else.

Provide adefinition of Computer ethics: Computer ethics is a branch of practical philosphy which deals with how computing professionals should make decisions regarding professional and social conduct. Retrieved 17th June from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/computer-ethics

Provide a definition o intellectual property: Intellectual property (IP) refers to creation of the mind. retrieved June 17th from http://www.wipo.int/about-ip/en/

Provide a definition of social justice:
Fair and proper administration of laws conforming to the natural law that all persons, irrespective of ethnic origin, gender, possessions, race, religion, etc., are to be treated equally and without prejudice. Retrieved 17th June from http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/social-justice.html

Provide a definition of informed consent:
Informed consent is a legal procedure to ensure that a patient or client knows all of the risks and costs involved in a treatment. The elements of informed consents include informing the client of the nature of the treatment, possible alternative treatments, and the potential risks and benefits of the treatment.
Retrieved 17th June from http://psychology.about.com/od/iindex/g/def_informedcon.htm

In own words briefly summarise why or why not a great understanding of ITC and the etical issues it encompasses will help us in our practice and daily lives?
It is important for us as OT's to be readily adaptable to new technologies and wanting to find the best for our patients or clients. We need the skills to use ITC devices and to know the rises and pitfalls, also in our daily lives knowing the best ways to find the right information.

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