Blog Entry No.8

Ethical Dilemma Chapter 11

Approximately one year ago an editor of this book carried out an informal survey among his academic colleagues who were members of the BCS. He approached each and asked if they could state two points contained within the BCS Code of Conduct. Two of these people responded by indicating that they did not know that the BCS had a professional code of conduct. Two indicated that while they knew the code of conduct existed, they had never look at it. The remaining two - who indicated their awareness of the code of conduct and recalled having looked at it - stated that they could not recall its contents.

These were clearly dismal results, particularly as the questions were asked of people who have been members for some time.

In this book we have discussed the BCS Code of Conduct in some detail - to what extent do you believe this code of conduct is important and/or relevant? Why would YOU join the BCS? If you are a student of a university department studying Computer Science or IT, have you been offered a BCS membership application form? Are you aware of the opportunities of networking, and for joining special interest groups? These are certainly good reasons to join the BCS - but on the other hand, during your professional career, do you believe that the framework defined within the BCS Code of Conduct is likely to be relevant and/or useful?

Incoming IT professional and the IT professional must know the BCS code of conduct. It is a must to every IT students and professionals, for them to be able to understand their role in the society. Possessing the code of conduct, you can absolutely exercise personal judgment as an individual. Follow its standard form and abide the requirements placed on all of the society’s member and everyone working on behalf of the society. Joining the BCS, has a great impact, this enhances our capabilities and knowledge and leads to change in the standing of the IT profession by understanding the requirements needed to have a successful project.