DAD802 Technology, society and ethics

This unit examines the social, ethical and professional issues that arise from the use of technology as well as the role of professionals in the ICT space with regard to ethical behaviour, personal and professional values, ICT governance, managing ICT services ethically and the role of data professionals in society. The unit introduces ethical frameworks and philosophies and the ethical dilemmas that are often faced by the professions and interprets them in the context of data analytics. It engages with the types of ethical problems that are associated with the work of an data professional, the role of technology in improving social inclusion and also the ethical challenges that technology creates for society. The unit emphasises the special ethical issues that relate to the collection, management and use of data and the role of data professionals in ensuring fair, equitable, ethical and legal frameworks are adhered to and that ICT services are managed ethically.  The ethical and professional imperatives relating to managing internal and external service expectations are addressed as are the IT governance and organisational issues that a data professional might face.  The professional working life of a data professional is also examined in the context of a duty to society, the diffusion of technology benefits and the protection of data owner’s privacy, confidentiality and interests.An understanding of the ICT profession in the context of ethical conduct is also reviewed.  The interplay of law and ethics and its implications on the technology landscape are also interpreted.  Ethical leadership and its contribution to the ICT profession is also evaluated as are the practical ethical problems that face ICT workers and the importance of responsibility as an underpinning professional trait.