I. GENERAL COURSE OBJECTIVES

This course will expose students to the often forgotten side of information systems. Typically, courses that deal with information systems focus on how to accomplish certain tasks and achieve specific goals (for example, developing certain kinds of software). This course asks a different set of questions that focus upon the legality and ethical concerns that arise from using the aforementioned software.

II. DESCRIPTION OF SUBJECT MATTER

This course provides in-depth coverage of the challenge and implications of computer technology, including important issues such as the impact of computers on personal privacy, censorship of the Internet, government policy on encryption, protection of intellectual property in cyberspace, hacking, computer crime, risks from failures of computer systems, and ethical dilemmas faced by computer professionals and computer users. The legality and morality concerning each of the above issues are not entirely clear today. Class discussions will create awareness and sensitivity to these topics and provide students with a strong foundation from which to tackle these difficult issues.

III. METHOD OF INSTRUCTION AND STUDY

This is a seminar course. The discussion format places a high demand on student preparation prior to each class. Accordingly, readings and assignments are to be completed before each class so that students are able to meaningfully contribute to each discussion.

IV. INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS AND SOURCES

Texts:

A Gift of Fire: Social, Legal, and Ethical Issues in Computing by Sara Baase, (c) 1997 ISBN 0-13-458779-0

Computer Ethics by Deborah G. Johnson, (c) 2001, ISBN 0-13-083699-0

Supplemental materials will be drawn from popular press, scientific research journals, and current events.