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Knowledge/A Level/H446/01 Computer systems/Moral and Ethical Issues/Computers in the workforce

Computers in the workforce

1.5.2 Moral and Ethical Issues

Moral and Ethical Issues — Note 1 of 9

Candidates need to understand what is meant by moral, social, ethical and cultural issues in relation to the use of computers, and should keep abreast of technological developments in the news. Candidates need to understand how the increasing use of computers in the workforce has moral, social, ethical and cultural implications and risks for employees, employers, society and organisations.

What you need to know

Computers have transformed the workplace, creating new opportunities while replacing some jobs. You need to discuss the moral, social, ethical and cultural implications for employees, employers, society and organisations.

What to know

  • Opportunities: new jobs in technology; repetitive or dangerous tasks automated; higher productivity; remote and flexible working; global collaboration.
  • Risks: job losses as robots and software replace workers (e.g. manufacturing, checkouts, call centres); need for retraining; deskilling of some roles.
  • Remote working can improve work-life balance but can also blur the boundary between work and home, and may isolate employees.
  • Workplace monitoring of employees raises privacy concerns.
  • Benefits may not be shared equally: some groups gain new opportunities while others lose income, widening inequality.

Exam technique

  • Tip:Keep up to date with technology in the news, and use current examples in extended answers.
  • Tip:Consider different stakeholders (employees, employers, customers, society) and give both positive and negative impacts.

Moral and Ethical Issues

Note 1 of 9

  1. 1Computers in the workforce
  2. 2Automated decision making
  3. 3Artificial intelligence
  4. 4Environmental effects
  5. 5Censorship and the Internet
  6. 6Monitor behaviour
  7. 7Analyse personal information
  8. 8Piracy and offensive communications
  9. 9Layout, colour paradigms and character sets
Topic overview
← Previous topicThe Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 20001.5.1 Computing Related LegislationNext note →Automated decision making1.5.2 Moral and Ethical Issues

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