Professional Ethics (Cambridge International A-Level Computer Science)

Ethics as a computing professional

What are ethics?

• Ethics are a set of principles that help us decide what is right or wrong

• They guide how we behave and make decisions, especially in situations where there isn't a clear answer

• In computing, an ethical issue is when technology creates a situation that challenges a person’s morals and values

• These issues can be difficult because:

  • Technology moves fast, but laws take time to catch up
  • There may be no single “correct” answer
  • Choices can have serious consequences for both individuals and society

Computer ethics

• Computer ethics are a set of principles that guide how computers and technology should be used responsibly and fairly

• They help prevent misuse and protect people’s rights in a digital world

• The three key areas of computer ethics are:

  • Intellectual property rights

    • It is unethical to copy or use software, music, or digital content without permission from the owner
    • Example: Downloading and using paid software without a licence

  • Privacy

    • Users have the right to keep their personal information safe
    • It is unethical (and illegal) to access someone’s personal data without their permission (e.g. hacking)

  • Impact on society

    • Computers affect how we work and live
    • Ethical concerns include job losses due to automation, social media effects, and digital addiction

• The internet has made plagiarism easier, this is when someone copies another person’s work and claims it as their own

• It’s not wrong to use someone’s idea, but you must give credit

• This is done through:

  • Footnotes
  • References or citations at the end of a document

• Anti-plagiarism software exists to scan and detect copied content from websites

Ethical bodies

What is an ethical body?

• An ethical body is an organisation that publishes a code of conduct which its members are expected to follow

• Being a member of an ethical body shows a commitment to professional integrity and maintaining high ethical standards in your work

• Examples of ethical bodies include:

  • British Computer Society (BCS)
  • Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)

British Computer Society (BCS)

• The professional body for IT and computing in the UK
• Promotes ethical behaviour, good practice, and high standards in tech-related jobs
• Members follow a Code of Conduct to ensure responsible use of technology

Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)

• A global organisation for engineers, developers, and computer scientists
• Sets technical standards and encourages ethical and professional behaviour in tech fields
• Known for publishing research and codes of ethics

Benefits of being a member of an ethical body

Ethical conduct

Example 1: Software development team

• A project manager leading a team of developers should:

  • Treat all team members fairly, listen to their ideas, and avoid favouritism

    • This helps team members feel valued.

  • Respect work-life balance by avoiding unrealistic deadlines

    • This supports better teamwork and helps get the best work out of them

  • Encourage collaboration and clear communication to avoid conflict

    • A team that works well together creates a better product for the client

Example 2: IT support company owner

• An IT company owner managing technicians who visit clients should:

  • Provide fair pay and ongoing training to keep staff skilled and motivated

    • Staff feel valued, which improves performance

  • Promote ethical behaviour with clients (e.g. don’t overcharge or mislead)

    • Builds trust within the team and with clients, leading to better service

  • Create a culture of respect and teamwork, even under pressure

    • Helps staff support each other and deliver a high-quality solution to clients

Worked Example Aisha manages a team of software developers.

Explain the reasons why it is important that Aisha acts ethically in relation to her team members.[2]

Final answer: Answer

• To make sure the team members feel valued [1 mark]
• To get the best work out of the team [1 mark]
• To enable them to work well together [1 mark]
• To enable them to create the best product for the client [1 mark]