Tutorial One: Information Technology and Ethical issues

Tutorial One... Information technology (IT) is defined as:

The production, storage and communication of information using computers and micro electronics.Hanks, P. (ed). (1989) Collins Concise Dictionary. Glasgow: Bath press.

Considering this definition, IT. IT is prevalent in our society! So many different devices come under the term IT, some include computers, TV's, DVD players, mp3 players, cell phones, the use of the Internet. The IT devices which I feel most comfortable using is my cellphone, (not necessarily others) computers, (Internet). After experiencing my fieldwork placements i have become very aware of the need for different IT devices in Occupational therapy (OT) practice. I have found in the last two settings i have worked in that it is most commonly used to store medical notes and to communicate with other therapists or staff members. Also there is importance of Cell phones in OT practice as cell phones allow quick and effective communication, they are a form of security and in emergency situations. They are often used to keep in touch with clients, which as an OT is highly important. When using IT devices we must consider the ethical considerations, these being security and privacy, such as working in a setting where you contact clients through your cell phone. It is very important to only use the 'OT' staff self phone. and not to give out personal information or specific details to clients. It is important to keep your private and work phone separate.
Computer ethics, a branch of practical philosophy which deals with how computing professionals should make decisions regarding professional and social conduct.(retrieved 10Th march www.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer_ethics). A safe way to protect ourselves as therapists in practice is by presenting informed consent. This is a legal condition where 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.Retrieved 10Th March (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Informed_consent)
Intellectual property, (IP) refers to creations of the mind: inventions, literary and artistic works, and symbols, names, images, and designs used in commerce. The term IP reflects that this subject matter is the product of the mind and that IP rights may be protected the same way as any other form of property.
Considering those who don't have the access as others might, is called Social Justice and refers to those who have limited or no access to IT. Because of this they are unable to share in the benefits and opportunities of others."Social justice requires that society develops policies and practices to more fully include people who in the past had limited access to computer resources" an Example of Social justice could be the poor. Knowledge of technology (IT) i believe is virtually vital in OT practice. Knowledge of ethical issues in IT is similar to ethical issues we come across in practice, obtaining confidentiality and privacy for our clients etc. This topic IT and the ethic s around this is very important in our particular practice (OT). I believe a lot of people just 'brush' it off, however it is a area where we need to be very carefully and aware of the Ethics and implications.