Information technology or also commonly known as 'IT' is an umbrella term that includes any communication device or application. This may encompass: Radio, T.V, cells phones, computer (emailing, social networking sites, trademe etc), satellite systems, MP3 players, dvd players, recorders as well as videos.
(Retrieved Sat May 29th 2010 at www.searchcio_midmarket.techtarget.com)
Some IT systems are used as everyday commonplace items within society whereby they have helped assist and develop a more technologically advanced economy. Many work places are heavily relying on technology to further their work practice, as well as some institutions moving to the way of an 'on-line learning system'.
I personally find the use of technology very helpful, whereby I am competent in using it on a day-to-day basis. Some of these items may include:laptop, cell phone, ipod, online community- 'Facebook'.
When out on fieldwork placements during occupational therapy practice, many technology devices such as cameras, computer, videos recorders, DVD players, Wii games, and T.Vs are being implemented in order to aid a clinicians practice as well as the clients they are working with.
From the use of these different devices, there may be many ethical considerations that must be addressed before using them...
Informed Consent: This is when a person has given consent for something when they have a clear understanding of what it is and the implications of that action. (Retrieved from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Informed_consent. By doing this you are making sure both you and your client understand the implications of the technology, as many issues regarding privacy and client confidentiality may arise.
Computer Ethics: these are moral principles that guide the way we act and behave and therefore computer ethics are principles that guide the use of computers. (Retrieved from http://www.techterms.com/definition/computerethics).
Intellectual property: or who owns what on the internet. Those who create or own information can make a lot of money from copyrights, however as the information can so easily be changed on the internet, policing this becomes difficult. (Bynum & Rogerson, 2004). People may have legal entitlements to certain types of ideas and information.
Social Justice: The access to information for everyone can also mean that those who are unable to access technology may miss out on advantages that are available to those who can. This means that society must develop practices and adaptive technologies in order to allow access to those such as the elderly, people with disabilities and those on limited incomes. (Bynum & Rogerson, 2004).
All in all it is very important that when out in practice, we as occupational therapists must have a competent understanding and rich source of knowledge surrounding IT and the ethical considerations that encompass it. This will therefore help facilitate us to provide our clients with the best possible equipment and give further insight into issues thereby helping people to achieve their goals.
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