Tutorial One: Information Technology and Ethical Issues

Provide a definition of Information Technology/Information Communications Technology:

I have found a definition of information technology/information communication technology on Wikipedia which has helped me to better understand what is meant by IT or ICT so I am going to share this with you all...

“Information and Communication Technology or ICTs allow users to participate other activities are increasingly transformed by access to varied and developing technologies.”

“ICT tools can be used to find, explore, analyze, exchange and present information responsibly and without discrimination. ICT can be employed to give users quick access to ideas and experiences from a wide range of people, communities and cultures.” (Information and Communication Technologies. , 2010)

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

I believe technology has become very prevalent in our society, due to our want to break down time and distance barriers, we have developed extraordinary technology that allows us to do things that were once impossible. Technology has become extremely common place, most people in the developed world will have a computer at home, a mobile phone or a digital camera. The fast development of technology has lead to it being very accessible and increasingly affordable.

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

Being a 'Generation Y' individual, I have grown up having access to technology and having to adapt to the constant changes. I think because of this I feel comfortable using most technology and if I have not used something before I will soon find out. I feel comfortabel using devices such as mobile phones, computer, Ipod, playstation/xbox, GPS etc. I can use systems such as windows vista, Internet pages e.g. facebook, programmes such as Itunes and microsoft office programmes such as word, powerpoint, excel.

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

In my placement IT was very important and used a lot, but IT was in high demand and was not always easily accessible. There was one computer per office which could have 2-3 therapists working within. Computers were vital for writing up clinical notes and accessing referrals. All notes had to be typed up and entered into the system. Mobile phones were used a lot, they were used to contact clients before appointments and were also a means of security while on home visits. Internet is an important tool used to research and gather information for clients. The computer and printing facility was also used to create things like colouring in pages, games and lotto boards for children.

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

Confidentiality is an important issue when transferring information via IT devices. If the information is important and confidential there is a risk it may be sent to the wrong person or the information could be intercepted, manipulated or exploited. This can also occur over the Internet when sharing/ transferring information. Internet users should also be aware that not all information on the Internet is reliable or valid.

Provide a definition of computer ethics

"Computer Ethics, better labeled 'information technology ethics,' deal with the proper use of a wide range of telecommunication and data storing devices."

Brown, R., & Hurt, B. (2005, March 24). Learning the Importance of Computer Ethics. Retrieved March 17, 2010, from Internet & Computer Ethics for Kids: http://piotech.wsd.wednet.edu/techwounits/02ComputerEthics/Task1/01ethicsnew/01ethicsnew.html

Provide a definition of Intellectual Property

"Any product of some one's intellect that has commercial value, especially copyright material, patents, and trademarks."

Anonymous. (2009, November 20). Intellectual Property. Retrieved March 18, 2010, from Wiktionary: http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/intellectual_property

Provide a definition of Social Justice

"Having the perspective that allows one to take social action against social structure inequality"

Anonymous. (2008, October 20). Centre for Social Justice Education and LGBT Communities (SJE). Retrieved March 18, 2010, from Rutgers New Brunswick: http://socialjustice.rutgers.edu/definitions.html

Provide a definition of Informed Consent

A definition of Informed Consent in a medical context:

"Informed Consent is that which an individual gives freely and willingly based on the quality and quantity of the information that has been presented to him or her"

"Informed Consent has evolved from simply obtaining a patients verbal permission prior to a treatment or procedure into a formal process intended to involve the patient in the personal decision to accept or reject the proposal"

Sharpe, C. C. (1999). Medical Records Review and Analysis. Westport: Greenwood Publishing Group.

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 as OT's we need to have a good understanding of ITC in order to provide the most up-to-date, highest quality therapy to our clients. We need to have the skills to use ITC devices and understand both the benefits and possible consequences of this use. It is important to embrace new technology in both practice and at home to ensure we have access to as much information as possible.