Course co-ordinator(s): Dr Marta Romeo (Edinburgh), Dr Neamat El Gayar (Dubai), Dr Thomas Basuki (Malaysia).
Aims:
- To instil a professional and ethical attitude toward the application of computer technology
- To introduce methods for the rational resolution of ethical problems
- To provide an appreciation of the relevant professional and legal requirements concerning computer-based systems
- To ensure an awareness of, and encourage deliberation about, the social implications of information technology
Detailed Information
Course Description: Link to Official Course Descriptor.
Pre-requisites: none.
Linked course(s): F29SO Software Engineering Synoptic Course..
Location: ALP, Dubai, Edinburgh, Malaysia.
Semester: 2.
Syllabus:
- Professionalism – British Computer Society.
- Rules & Regulations – Codes & Standards; Computer Law; Ethical Decision Making.
- Risks & Threats – Computer Crime; Viruses.
- Privacy & Security – Databases; Biometrics.
- Dependence & Change – Safety-Critical Systems; Technology & Society.
- Brave New Worlds – Co-operative Computing; eLife.
Learning Outcomes: Subject Mastery
Understanding, Knowledge and Cognitive Skills Scholarship, Enquiry and Research (Research-Informed Learning)
Broad and integrated knowledge and understanding of:
- British Computer Society Codes – Conduct; Practice
- ISO & BSI Standards – Safety; Quality; Security
- Statute Law – Contracts, Torts, Restitution; Data Protection; Freedom of Information, Intellectual Property; Computer Misuse
- Ethics – Frameworks; Decision Making
Critical understanding and detailed knowledge of:
- Development life-cycle of a software system
- Bi-directional influence between technological and societal trends
- Current concerns over the application of computer technology
Current and potential remedies to abuse of computer technology
Learning Outcomes: Personal Abilities
ndustrial, Commercial & Professional Practice Autonomy, Accountability & Working with Others Communication, Numeracy & ICT
- Practice in personal decision making and introspection
- Identification and analysis of justification of personal choices to others
- Critical analysis of rational reasoning, consequential reasoning and debate
- Practice and reflective analysis of communication skills using a variety of media
Practice in working in a group, negotiating requirements, reaching a consensus, and working with others to a deadline
SCQF Level: 9.
Credits: 15.