Unit Code: CIN711

Unit Name: Social and Professional Issues in Computing

Description: This course aims to introduce students to the basis of the ethical and legal systems that govern the supply and use of computer and communications technology. The course covers a balanced coverage of ethical problems and issues encountered by computer professionals in todays rapidly changing IT environment. It will cover provocative issues such as cybercrime, privacy laws, freedom of expression, intellectual property, social networking from all points of view. Students are asked as they face these challenges to think critically and draw their own conclusions, which ultimately prepare them to become responsible, ethical users of current and future technologies.

Learning Target Outcomes: On successful completion of this course, students will be able to : 1. Analyze the basic concepts of ethics, morality, and logical arguments.      2. Analyze the responsibilities of computer professionals as defined by the Software Engineering Code of Ethics and Professional Practice. 3. Analyze the cases involving computer and internet crime. 4. Apply the privacy laws and issues associated with freedom of expression. 5. Formulate viewpoints concerning the current legal and ethical status of intellectual property rights-specifically copyrights,trademarks, tradesecrets, patents and licensing, as they relate to computer software. 6. Develop arguments regarding the social implications and inequities arising from the expansion of technology in the global community.

Prerequisite: The student must have passed CIN603

Prerequisite Sentence: Minimum Entry Requirement of the programme

Credit Point: 15

Offered In: Semester 1