Show understanding of the need for and purpose of ethics as a computing professional

Why Ethics Matter in Computing

Think of ethics as the traffic lights that guide our code. Just as traffic lights keep roads safe, ethical guidelines keep software safe, fair, and respectful for everyone.

• 🔒 Privacy: Protecting user data like a diary.
• ⚖️ Fairness: Avoiding bias, so everyone gets equal treatment.
• 🛠️ Reliability: Building software that works when it’s needed.
• 💡 Transparency: Explaining what the code does, like a recipe card.

Ownership: Who Owns What?

When you write code, you create a digital property. Understanding ownership means knowing:

1. 🖋️ Copyright: Your original code is yours, but you can share it under licences.
2. 🔗 Open Source: Like a community garden – you can borrow, improve, and share.
3. 📜 Licences: Rules that say “You can use it, but you must give credit.”
4. 🛠️ Patents: Protecting unique inventions, like a secret recipe.

Ethical Decision-Making Framework

Use this simple 4-step process whenever you face an ethical dilemma:

Exam Tips 📚

When answering ethics questions:

• 🔍 Read the scenario carefully. Identify the key stakeholders.
• 📌 Use the 4-step framework. Show your reasoning.
• 💬 Include examples. Relate to real-world cases like data breaches.
• 📝 Structure your answer. Start with a brief statement, then explain.
• ⏱️ Manage time. Allocate 5 minutes for each question.

Quick Quiz

Which of the following best describes open-source licensing?

1. Only the original author can use the code.
2. The code is free to use, modify, and share, but must credit the original author.
3. The code can be sold without permission.
4. It is only for academic research.

Answer: 2️⃣