Consequences of Uses of Computing: Code of conduct
A Code of Conduct is not law, but it is a set of rules that apply when you are in an organisation such as your college. Examples might include "Don't look at pornography at work". This would be legal at home, but if you did it at work you could be sacked. In addition, a code of conduct may contain laws such as "Don't install pirated software".
The British Computer Society has produced a list of standards for the training and development of Information Technology workers.
It covers the following issues:
- The Public Interest - safeguarding public health; respecting rights of 3rd parties, applying a knowledge of relevant regulation.
- Duty to employers and clients - carrying out work according to the requirements, and not abusing employers' or clients' trust in any way.
- Professional duty - uphold the reputation of the profession through good practice, support fellow members in professional development
- Professional Integrity and Competence - maintain standards of professional skill and practice, accepting responsibility for work done, avoiding conflicts of interest with clients.
An example of a code of conduct in use in an office is as follows:
- Don't play games
- Don't look at pornography
- Don't gamble
- Don't plug your own peripherals into your computer
- Don't install software on work machines without permission
Each of these might be perfectly legal at home, but they might get you sacked at work
| Codes of Conduct may also include laws, as a way of reminding employees what is legal and what isn't legal |
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Exercise: Laws and Codes of Conduct What is the difference between a Code of Conduct and a Law? Answer: A Law is applicable in all and every situation. A Code of Conduct is relevant only within the confines of an office, organisation or school. In a work place which of the following would be code of conduct rules only and which are laws. If a law name the law applicable:
Answer:
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