Meru University of Science and Technology

Department of Computer Science

Course code: CIT 3451 Course Title: PROFESSIONAL AND ETHICAL ISSUES IN COMPUTING

Year of study: FOUR Semester: TWO Academic year: 2023/2024

Prerequisites: NONE

Course Purpose

The course is designed to provide a learner with a comprehensive understanding of the ethical
considerations and professional responsibilities inherent in the field of computing. It aims to foster
awareness of the impact of technological decisions on individuals and society, instil a framework for
ethical decision-making, and ensure compliance with relevant legal standards.

A learner will develop the skills to critically evaluate the social implications of technology, navigate
complex ethical dilemmas, and communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders. By exploring
cultural sensitivity, fostering a commitment to continuous learning, and emphasizing professional
responsibility, the course seeks to prepare a learner for ethical and responsible contributions to the
ever-evolving landscape of computing.

Expected Learning Outcomes

At the end of the course, the learner should be able to:

 Develop a heightened awareness of ethical considerations in computing, demonstrating the

ability to identify and analyse ethical issues associated with technological decisions and their
broader societal impact.

 Acquire a robust ethical decision-making framework, enabling students to evaluate complex

situations, weigh conflicting values, and make morally sound choices in the context of
computing.

 Understand and apply legal principles relevant to computing, ensuring compliance with laws
and regulations governing areas such as intellectual property, privacy, and cybersecurity.
  Demonstrate a commitment to professional responsibility, including honesty, integrity, and
accountability in interactions with clients, colleagues, and the broader community.

 Evaluate and articulate the social implications of computing innovations, considering factors
such as cultural diversity, employment, and equity, and making informed decisions that
contribute positively to society.

 Cultivate a mind-set of continuous learning, staying informed about emerging ethical

challenges and adapting ethical frameworks in response to evolving technologies and societal
expectations in the dynamic field of computing.

Course Content

Week Main Topic Sub-topic

1 Student semester registration

2 Introduction to  Overview of the course objectives, expectations, and

Professional and Ethical assessment criteria.
Issues
 Importance of ethics in Computing

 Foundational principles of ethics and professionalism in

Computing.

 Discussion: Real-world examples of ethical dilemmas in

Computing.

3 Historical Perspective  Evolution of computing and ethical considerations.

on Computing Ethics
 Case study: Historical incidents highlighting ethical
concerns.

 Reading assignment: Key papers on the history of

computing ethics.

4 Data Privacy and  Introduction to data privacy laws and regulations (e.g.,
Protection General Data Protection Regulation, Data Protection Act.

 Ethical considerations in data collection, storage, and

sharing.

5 Bias and Fairness in  Understanding algorithmic bias and its implications.

Machine Learning
 Techniques for detecting and mitigating bias.

 Case study: Real-world examples of biased algorithms.

6 Ethical Decision Making  Frameworks for ethical decision-making.

in Computing
 Ethical dilemmas in Computing scenarios.
  Discussion: Balancing stakeholder interests and ethical
considerations.

7 Intellectual Property  Overview of intellectual property rights.

and Copyright Issues
 Copyright issues in data and software

 Open source and licensing

 Ethical considerations in using and sharing code and data

8 Ethical Issues in Big  Challenges and ethical considerations in big data

Data and AI analytics.

 Ethical implications of AI: Autonomous systems, decision-

making, and accountability.

9 Ethical Standards and  Overview of ethical standards and codes relevant to

Codes of Conduct Computing

 Analysing and interpreting professional codes of conduct.

 Group activity: Developing a code of conduct for a

hypothetical Computer project.

10 Computer Crime  Explain the concept of Hacking and its historical

perspective.

 Illustrate real-life cases that mirror the above issues.

 Discuss issues around identity theft and credit card fraud

 Explain laws that rule the use of the Web.

11 Can we Trust  Explain different ways that things can go wrong in usage
Computers of computer technology.

 Conduct research on cases when computer technology

went wrong.

 Explain how to improve reliability and safety in usage of

computer technology.

12 Responsible Computing  Explains the concept of responsible computing

 Role of professional societies (e.g., ACM, IEEE) in

promoting ethical practices.

 Ethical responsibilities of data scientists and computing

professionals.

 Case study: Ethical lapses in professional conduct.

13 Future Trends and  Exploring ethical challenges posed by emerging
Emerging Ethical Issues technologies (e.g., quantum computing, IoT).

 Discussion: Ethical considerations in future scenarios of

Computer science.

 Guest lecture: Futurist focusing on ethical implications.

14 & 15 Examination

Mode of Delivery

Lectures, Class exercises, Case Scenario, Class group discussion and presentations
Instructional Materials/ Equipment

Whiteboard, Markers, Handouts, LCD projector, Laptop Computers.

Course Assessment

Type Weighting (%)

Examination 70

Continuous Assessment 30

Total 100

Core Reading Materials

Baase, S. (2017). A gift of fire. 5th Edition. Pearson Education Limited.

Quinn, M. J. (2009). Ethics for the information age . Boston: Pearson Education.

Recommended Reading Materials

De George, R. T. (2008). The ethics of information technology and business. John Wiley & Sons.

Name of Lecturer Signature Date

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