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Course Description

Students examine current computer issues and selected topics from these, including the impact of computer technology on society; historical perspectives; social and economic consequences of large-scale information processing systems and automatic control; legal and ethical problems in computer applications; intellectual property. Additional topics include the computer and the individual; machine versus human capabilities; facts and fancy; problematic interface between human and machine; privacy and security; the need for standards and the implications of non-standardization; and ethics. By the end of the course students will be able to apply socially responsible, sustainable and ethical behaviors. 

Learning outcomes

  • Identify the historical advancements and emergence of ethical responsibility of a Computing Science professional
  • Discuss the general ethical philosophies and responsibilities of the professionals following them
  • Describe the intellectual property rights and responsibilities of the professionals using them
  • Critically examine ethical principles and ethical decision-making processes in computing science by applying the ACM / IEEE code of ethics.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the legal responsibilities of a Computing Science professional covered under code of ethics
  • Analyze contemporary issues related to ethics, civic engagement and/or sustainability in computing science
  • Describe theoretical underpinnings for socially responsible, sustainable and ethical behaviours related to the field of Computing Science, especially with the use of AI.
  • Describe the need of socially responsible behaviors characteristic for a Computing Science professional with reference to data/information and surveillance

Course topics

  • Module 1: Introduction to Ethics and Professionalism
  • Module 2: Ethical Theories and Philosophies
  • Module 3: Intellectual Property, Code of Ethics, and Legal Framework for Intellectual Property in Canada
  • Module 4: Civic Engagement, Sustainability, Corporate Social Responsibility, and Ethical Dilemmas
  • Module 5: Artificial Intelligence (AI), Data Storage, and Ethics

Required text and materials

Students are responsible for purchasing the required materials on their own:

  • Gibson, K. (2014). An Introduction to Ethics. Pearson.

Type: E-Textbook. ISBN: 9780205708543 / 9780133769319

Note: This item can be purchased directly from the following link

Assessments

Assignment 1: Ethical Theories 10%
Assignment 2: Code of Ethics 10%
Quiz 10%
Assignment 3: Ethical Dilemma 10%
Assignment 4: Discussion Forum Posts 10%
Assignment 5: Research Paper 20%
Mandatory Final Exam 30%
Total 100%
 

Recommended requisite(s)

  • Third year standing
  • CMNS 1290: Introduction to Professional Writing with a grade of C or better
  • CMNS 1291: Introduction to Professional Writing with a grade of C or better

Exclusions

  • COMP 4930: Professional and Ethical Issues in Computing Science
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Enrol now - select a section to enrol in

Section Title
Professional and Ethical Issues in Computing Science
Section Schedule
Any Time (30 weeks duration)
Delivery
Online, self-paced  
Course Fee(s)
Canadian in BC/YT non-credit $837.62 Click here to get more information
Canadian outside BC/YT non-credit $946.70 Click here to get more information
International Student non-credit $1,661.15 Click here to get more information
Available for Credit
3 credits

Open Learning faculty member information

An Open Learning faculty member is available to assist students. Students will receive the necessary contact information at the start of the course.

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