Ethical Challenges in IT Professions

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is NOT explicitly mentioned in the provided content as a resource for understanding ethical challenges in IT workplaces?

  • The IEEE Code of Ethics
  • The Philippine Senate's Code of Conduct (correct)
  • The Whistleblower Protection Act
  • The ACM Code of Ethics

According to the content, what is the primary goal of the group skit assignment?

  • To demonstrate technical expertise in IT systems
  • To analyze and discuss ethical scenarios in an IT workplace (correct)
  • To present a solution to a specific ethical dilemma
  • To showcase creative writing and storytelling skills

Which of the following is a direct quote mentioned in the provided excerpt?

  • ‘Ethical Challenges for Information Systems Professionals’
  • ‘Moral responsibility is not exclusive’
  • ‘Across professions, consistency is a direct product of work ethic.’ (correct)
  • ‘Consider the setting, characters, dialogues and the message you aim to convey’

The content suggests that ethical considerations in IT are important for which reason?

<p>All of the above (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the skit assignment in the context of the content?

<p>The skit assignment encourages students to engage in ethical discussions about IT practices. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which principle of the Software Engineers Code of Ethics, as outlined in the provided text, emphasizes the importance of promoting ethical practice within the software development and maintenance process?

<p>Principle 5 (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which principle highlights the responsibility of software engineers to advance the reputation of the profession and act in the public interest?

<p>Principle 6 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is mentioned as a specific clause related to Principle 6?

<p>6.01 (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which principle promotes the idea of software engineers acting in a fair and supportive manner towards their colleagues?

<p>Principle 7 (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which principle encourages software engineers to constantly enhance their skills in producing cost-effective, reliable, and useful software?

<p>Principle 8 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In Case Scenario 1, what ethical principle does Professor Smith's actions potentially violate based on the provided information?

<p>Principle 6 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the provided information, which clause is associated with the concept of encouraging software engineers to contribute their skills for positive causes and public education?

<p>1.08 (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which principle emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive environment for acting ethically?

<p>Principle 6 (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of certification and licensing in a profession?

<p>To ensure that only individuals with specialized knowledge and skills can practice the profession. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which two organizations are considered the largest supporters of the computing field?

<p>IEEE Computer Society (IEEE-CS) and ACM (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of the joint steering committee formed by IEEE-CS and ACM in 1993?

<p>To establish software engineering as a profession. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the first task force contribute to the development of software engineering as a profession?

<p>By conducting a survey to understand the necessary knowledge and skills for software engineers. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a fully developed profession?

<p>A monopoly on the market for its services. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the lack of certification and licensing affect the computing field?

<p>It makes it easier for individuals to enter the profession. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of IEEE Computer Society (IEEE-CS)?

<p>To offer technical information and resources to computing professionals. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the ACM's vision statement emphasize?

<p>Maintaining its position as the leading global computing society. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern regarding the ability of the computer profession to harm the public?

<p>The risk of software errors leading to harmful consequences. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT mentioned in the 'Software Engineers Code of Ethics' as a principle?

<p>Software engineers should actively seek to promote universal access to technology. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the ultimate effect of software engineer's work that should be prioritized?

<p>Public good and well-being. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of software development is emphasized in Principle 3 of the Software Engineers Code of Ethics?

<p>The importance of clear and achievable project goals. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is implied by the statement "Software engineers shall maintain integrity and independence in their professional judgment" in Principle 4 of the Software Engineers Code of Ethics?

<p>Software engineers should avoid conflict of interest and make decisions based on objective criteria. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key takeaway from the Therac-25 case study?

<p>It emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations in software engineering. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What principle of the Software Engineers Code of Ethics is directly related to the statement that software engineers "shall not knowingly use software... obtained or retained either illegally or unethically"?

<p>Principle 2: Client and Employer (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the best way to prevent software from being used to harm the public?

<p>The implementation of stronger ethical guidelines for software engineers. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to clauses in the Software Engineering Code of Ethics and Professional Practice, what action is alluded to as a potential moral duty?

<p>Whistle-blowing (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of the provided content, what is a key argument AGAINST whistle-blowing?

<p>It jeopardizes the reputation of the organization. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The text mentions "Whistleblower 2 Protection Act of 2019." What is the primary purpose of this act?

<p>To protect whistleblowers from retaliation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main argument presented against the effectiveness of whistle-blowing?

<p>It fails to address the underlying causes of misconduct within organizations. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions are considered examples of "internal whistle blowing"?

<p>Reporting misconduct to a supervisor or manager. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The content argues that "[whistle-blowing] is a sign of organizational failure." What is the primary reasoning behind this argument?

<p>It indicates a lack of leadership and effective management practices within the organization. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The content discusses the potential harm caused by whistle-blowing, highlighting that it "disrupts the social fabric of an organization." What does this statement imply?

<p>It can lead to a loss of trust and collaboration within the team. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions would be considered ethical in the scenario with Joe and Chuck, according to the provided content?

<p>Joe should contact the company's IT security team, report his findings, and let them address the situation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What ethical challenge does Joe face when discovering child pornography on Chuck's computer?

<p>Joe faces conflicting obligations, balancing his responsibility to his employer with potential legal obligations regarding illegal content. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Based on the provided information, in what way does the Software Engineering Code of Ethics and Professional Practice implicitly support whistle-blowing as a moral duty?

<p>It emphasizes protecting the public interest and upholding ethical practices. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which principle from the content is most directly related to Joe's initial decision not to view Chuck's files?

<p>2.03. Use the property of a client or employer only in ways properly authorized, and with the client’s or employer’s knowledge and consent. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What ethical concern is NOT directly addressed in the content regarding Joe's situation?

<p>Joe's duty to disclose potential conflicts of interest. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Based on the content, which ethical principle does Tim Smart's action of releasing the antiworm potentially violate?

<p>1.06. Be fair and avoid deception in all statements, particularly public ones, concerning software or related documents, methods and tools. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions by Tim would be considered most ethical in the scenario of the antiworm?

<p>Discontinuing the antiworm and notifying the software company about the security vulnerability. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What potential ethical concern might arise from the way Tim's antiworm spreads?

<p>Tim's antiworm could potentially cause unintended damage to users' computer systems. (A), Tim's antiworm could be used for malicious purposes. (B), Tim's actions could undermine the public trust in software security. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is the most accurate interpretation of the principle 'Be fair and avoid deception in all statements, particularly public ones, concerning software or related documents, methods and tools.'?

<p>Software developers must avoid making false claims about their software abilities. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Software Engineer

A professional engaged in software development, maintenance, or education.

Ability to Harm Public

Software engineers can cause harm through defective software or systems.

Therac-25

A radiation therapy machine that caused injuries due to software defects.

Principle 1: Public

Software must be safe, meet specifications, and not harm quality of life.

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Principle 2: Client and Employer

Engineers must not use software acquired illegally or unethically.

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Principle 3: Product

Set achievable goals for projects to ensure proper outcomes.

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Principle 4: Judgment

Maintain integrity and independence in professional decisions.

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Code of Ethics

A set of principles guiding software engineers' professional conduct.

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Moral Responsibility

The obligation to act ethically and be accountable for one's actions in a profession.

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Ethical Challenges

Situations in the workplace that require difficult decisions concerning right and wrong.

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Whistleblower

An individual who reports unethical or illegal activities within an organization.

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Performance Task in Ethics

An assignment designed to assess understanding of ethical principles in real scenarios.

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Principle 5: Management

Managers shall promote ethical management of software development.

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Principle 6: Profession

Advance the integrity and reputation of the software profession.

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Principle 7: Colleagues

Be fair and supportive to fellow software engineers.

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Principle 8: Self

Keep improving your ability to create quality software.

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Sam Shaw Case Scenario

Sam seeks advice on improving network security from an expert.

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NetCheks Software Advice

Professor Smith recommends a software without disclosing alternatives.

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Public Education Contribution

Professionals should contribute skills to good causes and public education.

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Professional Skills Volunteering

Encouragement to volunteer skills for public benefit.

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Computer-Related Professions

Careers related to computing, such as web developers and data scientists.

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Certification and Licensing

Process allowing professionals to practice legally, enforced in some professions but not in computing.

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IEEE Computer Society

An organization aimed at supporting computing professionals with technical info and services.

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Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)

A global society focused on computing professionals and fostering excellence in this field.

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Software Engineering Profession

Established as a profession by IEEE-CS and ACM to set standards and guidelines for practitioners.

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Joint Steering Committee

Group formed by IEEE-CS and ACM to address software engineering as a profession.

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Task Forces in Software Engineering

Special groups that focused on skills, accreditation, and ethical standards for software engineers.

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Fairness in Software

Be fair and avoid deception in statements about software.

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Conflict of Interest

Disclose unavoidable conflicts to all concerned parties.

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Ethical Use of Data

Use accurate data derived from ethical sources properly authorized.

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Client Property Use

Use client property only with their knowledge and consent.

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Higher Ethical Concern

Promote no adverse interest unless there’s a higher ethical concern.

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Due Process

Provide due process in hearing charges of violation.

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Ethical Challenge Scenario

Joe's ethical challenge involves encountering illegal content while following guidelines.

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Worm vs. Antiworm

Tim's antiworm exploits a weakness to spread & fix vulnerabilities.

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Volunteer Professional Skills

Contributing skills to benefit good causes and public education.

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Types of Whistle Blowing

Internal (within an organization) and external (outside the organization).

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Morality of Whistle Blowing

Debate whether whistleblowers are heroes or traitors.

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Organizational Failure

Whistleblowing signifies poor organizational practices.

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Whistleblower Protection Act 2019

Legislation that secures and benefits whistleblowers.

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Disloyalty Consequences

Whistleblowing can be seen as disloyalty, harming the company.

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Code of Ethics Reference

Whistleblowing references in Software Engineering Code clauses.

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Study Notes

Ethical Challenges for Information Systems Professionals

  • The presented lesson is about ethical challenges faced by information systems professionals
  • Learning outcomes include determining the standing of computer-related careers, explaining the principles formulated by the Association of Computing Machinery (ACM) for dealings in the IT profession, and applying the code of ethics in a software engineer's work scenario
  • Computer-related professions include web developer, software developer, software engineer, system analyst, database administrator, information security analyst, and data scientist
  • The lecture explores the development of computing professions, discussing their features and asking how well-developed they are
  • A fully developed profession needs criteria like accreditation, education, certification, skill development, code of ethics, professional society, and professional development
  • Certification and licensing determine who is allowed to practice a profession
  • In contrast to other professions, computer-related professionals may practice without certifications or licenses
  • IEEE Computer Society's vision is to be the leading provider of technical information, community services, and personalized services to computing professionals
  • ACM aims to be the premier global computing society
  • Three task forces were created to explore the establishment of software engineering as a profession:
    • The first conducted a survey to identify the knowledge and skills needed by software engineers
    • The second developed criteria for undergraduate software engineering programs
    • The third developed a code of ethics for software engineers
  • A software engineer is anyone involved in software development or maintenance, or who teaches about it
  • The computer profession can cause harm to people through poorly designed, implemented, or maintained software and hardware
  • An example is the Therac-25 radiation therapy machine, defective software that caused injuries and fatalities
  • Responsibility for ethical decision-making is crucial when formal certification isn't available
  • The code of ethics for software engineers has eight principles for guiding ethical decisions
    • Principle 1: Public – software engineers must ensure software is safe, meets specifications, and avoids harming people or the environment
    • Principle 2: Client and Employer – software engineers cannot use software obtained or retained unethically
    • Principle 3: Product – software engineers need proper and achievable goals for the projects they work on
    • Principle 4: Judgment – software engineers need integrity and independence in their decisions
    • Principle 5: Management – leaders in software engineering need to promote ethical software development and maintenance
    • Principle 6: Profession – software engineers need to advance the integrity and reputation of the profession
    • Principle 7: Colleagues – software engineers should be fair and supportive of their colleagues
    • Principle 8: Self – software engineers need to continually improve their skills to create safe, reliable, and useful software efficiently
  • Case scenarios are presented to illustrate the application of these principles, using examples of challenging ethical situations
  • Whistle-blowing is outlined as a way of reporting misconduct, and the distinction between internal and external whistle-blowing are explained
  • Whistleblower protection act of 2019 gives protection to whistleblowers, safeguarding them from negative impacts
  • Moral issues concerning whistle-blowing are stated arguing that it disrupts team morale and loyalty, making a company vulnerable to reputational damage
  • The action of whistle-blowing can be considered an act of organizational failure
  • Several learning outcomes are linked to the code of ethics
  • Principles for moral responsibility are emphasized.

Case Scenarios

  • Sam Shaw seeks advice on improving his local area network's security; he is provided with information about a security package but not all pertinent alternatives.
  • Joe dela Cruz, while installing new software, discovers files with child pornography, facing ethical dilemmas to abide by both federal law and company policy
  • Tim Smart creates an anti-worm that exploits a security vulnerability to quickly address the vulnerability, raising questions about the ethical implications of distributing this anti-worm
  • Principles that guide ethical decision making in these cases were listed
  • A YouTube video is provided for students to view to aid in understanding the discussed topics

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