Tutorial one: Information Technology and Ethical Issues

Information Technology and Ethical Issues

This blog post has the focus on information technology commonly used today and the ethical issues that surrounds it. With the provision of its meaning from a credible resource, I will be interpreting what “information technology” is based from my research using my own words.

Further in the posting, I will share what IT I enjoy the most (at this moment) and how it benefits my studies.

William and Sawyer (2005) define ‘information technology” as the combined communications of one computer to the other while sharing data, sound and video.

“When computer and communications technologies are combined, the result is information technology-“infotech”- technology that merges computing with high-speed communications links carrying data, sound and video” (William & Sawyer, 2005 p. 2).

People nowadays do not have to physically talk to each other if they want to communicate with one another. People do not have to post written letters to someone that will take up to 3 to 5 days to read rather they can simply send an e-mail (electronic mail) or send a ‘txt’ messages through cell phones and internet (If telephone is not available). With today’s idea of multi-tasking people cannot afford to look for telephone or travel miles away to meet someone they wish to converse with.

A speech of a college professor in Harvard states the idea of multi-tasking.

IT devices or system I feel comfortable and competent using...

Personally, I like my I-phone handy at all times. Not just it can connect me with people I want to contact with, this device can also connect through internet (using Wi-Fi or 3G) and plays my favourite songs. However, it may limit usage of it if the phone has no credit or Wi-Fi to connect to world wide web.

I-phones allow its users to store an application that suits the person’s lifestyle. For instance, as a student, I was able to download ‘dictionary’ where I can simply type in the words that I’m not familiar with. Also, by downloading “in-class” I was able to save my word document files and go back, read or review them without using a personal computer or laptop. I can even save my timetable through it, without opening my bag. It’s all in my pocket.

IT from my previous fieldwork placements...

Fieldwork one:

-       Computers are being used to save files such as assessment forms, patient records etc. (in Therapists’ office)

-       Telephones are everywhere (including one in the Gym)

-       Electronic visual aids that indicate which patient did ring the bell (in the ward)

Fieldwork two:

-       Computers are being used as a form of intervention to a client (teaching them how to use technology-so they don’t feel behind from the new era)

-       The SLT uses a computer-programme to help her with the intervention e.g. the patient will click on the letter or picture and a voice will be heard and the patient will imitate what the voice has said.  

Issues regarding IT in fieldwork?

So far, based from my first and second fieldwork, I have not experience any technical problems happened while observing their use of technologies.

Potential tool of practice...

Different technologies are being used by therapists (Some of which are mentioned above).

One I can think of is (as an OT student), we use moodles and most of us work by typing our assignments. Tutors post online resources for us students to source instead of face to face lecture.

As a professional, we must see IT as not just a piece of plastic and metals put together and can be displayed. It serves us ‘faster’ in terms of communication, save us space compare to large filing cabinets before. However, if a health profession would rely its practice solely to IT, rapport between care provider and patients is impossible. Which I think building up relation with a client will help the therapy process as it may lead the patient trusting the OT.

Ethical implications arise from the capturing,  sharing and transferring of information via IT devices (e.g. mobile phones) or systems (e.g. internet)

Private messages, pictures and videos are accessible using internet. If a person accidentally forget to log-out or sign out from his/her email account or online bank account, transferring of data (or money) is not impossible.

Mobile phones that contains contact numbers from friends and family is accessible as well as private pictures if left alone.

References:

HarvardExtension. (2010, May 14). Sherry Turkle on digital technology and today's students: IT panel. retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebjyMJZFi_E

William, B., & Sawyer, S., (2005). Using information technology: a practical introduction  to computers & communications. USA: McGraw-Hill.