Digital Ethics

What are Ethics (in general)?

Ethics is the branch of philosophy that deals with morality. It's collectively what we decide is right and wrong.

• Morality: Principles distinguishing right from wrong behavior.

• Law vs. Ethics: Something can be legal but still unethical, and vice versa.

Everyday Ethical Questions:

• Is it unfair to take open seats at movies or concerts?

• Should you tell a seller an item is worth more than the posted price?

• If someone tells an offensive joke, is it your responsibility to respond?

• Is it okay to take photos or video of people in public without thier knowledge? 

Digital Ethics and You

1. Acceptable Use Policies (AUPs):

• Define rules for using technology and internet resources at your institution.

• Example: CCBC AUP  - What are you agreeing to when you use the college's tech? 

2. Accessibility:

• Making information usable by as many people as possible.

• Example: Federal Digital Accessibility Policy 

3. Plagiarism vs. Copyright:

• • Plagiarism is using someone else’s work without credit. It's unethical, an academic violation, but not illegal

  • Copyright is legal protection for original works (words, music, art, code). Violating copyright is illegal.
    However, Fair Use allows limited use for academic learning purposes. 

Activity: Explore CCBC Academic Integrity Policy

Click here to search Creative Commons.

Activity: Use Creative Commons to choose a license for the creative work you will share on your ePortfolio for this unit!