Project Work: 1.2 (Social and Ethical Design)

Question 1

What is a Machine-Centered System?

Answer 1

A system designed to simplify what the computer must do at the expense of participants.

Question 2

What is a Human-Centered System?

Answer 2

A system that make participants’ work as effective and satisfying as possible.

Question 3

What does User-Friendly mean?

Answer 3

Describes a tool that people find easy to use.

Question 4

What characteristics does user-friendly software contain?

Answer 4

1. Uses non-technical terms
2. Doesn’t require precise spelling of commands
3. Structures menues so they are logical and easy to understand
4. Adjusts software to the ability of the user.
5. Allows previous work to be imported and used easily.

Question 5

What is ergonomics?

Answer 5

The relation between people and their work environment.

Question 6

What do new systems have an impact on?

Answer 6

1. Use of Skills
2. Meaningful Work
3. Nature of the workplace
4. Social relationships

Question 7

What are ethics?

Answer 7

A set of beliefs we hold about what is right and wrong.

Question 8

What ethical issues are involved in the use of information systems?

Answer 8

1. Environmental damage
2. Equity and Access
3. Invasion of Privacy
4. Freedom of Information
5. Computer Crime
6. Copyright