PIIT Module Description...

Aims of Module: It is imperative that computing/IS professionals have an understanding of the societal, professional, ethical and legal issues arising from the use and development of technology. The aim of this module is to relate the theoretical and practical work of the other modules to the work of the computing/information systems professional by introducing students to the concepts of computer ethics, professional responsibilities and IT law. This module will be an interactive learning experience with lively debates and discussions of current and topical events.

Syllabus Outline: Introduction to the concepts of computer ethics and professional responsibility; Skills for Ethical Analysis; Main ethical models; Relativism, Utilitarianism; Deontological theories; Requirements for Professional Ethics; Is computing a profession?; Models of professional relationships; Codes of Ethics (ACM, BCS, IFIP); Legal issues; Computer Crime; Intellectual Property; Law and the Internet; Data Protection; Hacking and Viruses; History of Hacking; Hacker Ethics; Legislation and legal cases; Privacy: Why is privacy important?; Computer Surveillance; Problems with Networked Communication; Privacy Legislation; Summary of Ethical and Professional Issues; Summary of required skills; Summary of Legislation and legislative Problems.
The full module specification is available on Blackboard VLE.