Computer Ethics – JSS1 Computer Studies Lesson Note (Second Term)

Computer ethics means the rules about right and wrong when using computers. It is about being good and fair when you use computers, phones, and the internet. Just like we have rules for how to behave in real life, we also need rules for how to behave when using computers.

Behavioural objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

• explain what computer ethics means
• state why computer ethics is important
• list the basic rules of computer ethics
• describe cyberbullying, digital footprint, copyright and plagiarism
• list good habits for passwords, screen time, social media and online privacy

Why is computer ethics important?

Computer ethics is important because:

• Computers are everywhere in our lives
• What we do on computers can affect real people
• Bad computer behaviour can hurt others
• Computers make it easy to do things we shouldn’t
• We need to be safe and responsible online

When we all follow good computer ethics, the internet is safer and more fun for everyone. How you act online is just as important as how you act in real life.

What are the basic computer ethics rules?

Respect other people’s privacy

• Don’t look at other people’s files without permission
• Don’t read other people’s emails or messages
• Don’t share pictures or information about others without asking
• Don’t use other people’s passwords
• Respect people’s right to keep their information private

Tell the truth online

• Don’t lie about who you are
• Don’t spread false information
• Be honest in what you share
• Don’t trick people online
• Your online words should be truthful

Respect computer property

• Don’t use software without paying for it (if it costs money)
• Don’t copy programs illegally
• Don’t steal other people’s digital work
• Ask before using someone else’s computer
• Treat digital things like real things that belong to someone

Don’t harm others with computers

• Don’t send mean messages (cyberbullying)
• Don’t use computers to cheat
• Don’t create or spread computer viruses
• Don’t hack into other people’s accounts
• Use computers to help, not hurt others

Respect computer rules and laws

• Follow the rules at school or work about computer use
• Obey laws about computers and the internet
• Don’t break into computer systems
• Don’t download things illegally
• Know and follow the rules of websites you use

What is cyberbullying?

Cyberbullying means being mean to someone using computers or phones. It includes:

• Sending mean messages
• Posting embarrassing pictures
• Spreading rumours online
• Excluding someone from online groups
• Pretending to be someone else online to trick them

Cyberbullying hurts people just like bullying in real life. It can make people feel sad, scared, or alone. If you see cyberbullying, tell a trusted adult. If someone cyberbullies you, don’t respond and tell someone who can help.

What is a digital footprint?

Your digital footprint is everything about you on the internet. It includes:

• Pictures you post
• Comments you make
• Websites you visit
• Things you like or share
• Messages you send

Remember that your digital footprint can last forever. Before you post anything, think: “Would I want my teacher or grandparent to see this?” If not, don’t post it.

What are copyright and plagiarism?

Copyright means someone owns their creative work. Plagiarism means taking someone else’s work and saying it’s yours.

To respect copyright and avoid plagiarism:

• Don’t copy and paste others’ work without permission
• Give credit when you use someone else’s ideas
• Ask before using pictures or music you find online
• Don’t download movies, music, or games illegally
• Create your own work instead of copying others

How can you keep your passwords safe?

Passwords keep your information safe. Good password habits:

• Use strong passwords (mix of letters, numbers, and symbols)
• Don’t share your passwords with friends
• Use different passwords for different accounts
• Change your passwords regularly
• Never write passwords where others can find them

How does screen time affect health?

Too much computer time can be bad for your health:

• Take breaks every 30 minutes
• Don’t use computers right before bedtime
• Balance screen time with outside play
• Sit with good posture at the computer
• Protect your eyes by looking away from the screen often

What is good social media ethics?

When using social media:

• Think before you post
• Be kind in comments
• Don’t share too much personal information
• Ask before tagging others in photos
• Remember that many people can see what you post

How can you protect your privacy online?

• Don’t give out personal information (address, phone number)
• Check privacy settings on your accounts
• Be careful about what photos show about your location
• Don’t talk to strangers online
• Ask an adult before filling out online forms

What is good computer ethics at school?

• Using school computers only for school work
• Not playing games when you should be working
• Not changing computer settings without permission
• Reporting problems to your teacher
• Following all school computer rules

What is good computer ethics at home?

• Following family rules about computer time
• Being honest about what you do online
• Asking before downloading anything
• Respecting family members’ digital privacy
• Using computers in open areas where others can see

What should you do when you see bad computer ethics?

If you see someone breaking computer ethics rules:

• Don’t join in the bad behaviour
• Tell the person what they’re doing is wrong
• Report serious problems to a trusted adult
• Don’t share or forward harmful content
• Be a good digital citizen yourself

Evaluation

1. What is computer ethics?
2. Give three reasons why computer ethics is important.
3. What is cyberbullying? Give two examples.
4. What is a digital footprint?
5. What is the difference between copyright and plagiarism?

Assignment

1. List five good password habits.
2. Write five rules for good computer ethics at school.