University students and ethics of computer technology usage: Human resource development

Abstract

The primary purpose of this study was to determine the level of students' awareness about computer technology ethics at the Hashemite University in Jordan. A total of 180 university students participated in the study by completing the questionnaire designed by the researchers, named the Computer Technology Ethics Questionnaire (CTEQ). Results indicated that university students showed a medium level of awareness about computer technology ethics. Additionally, results indicated that there were no significant differences in participants' level of awareness based on the demographics of gender and academic level. Ethical violations included hacking into a computer system for illegal purposes; taking on a different personal identity on the Internet; illegal use and distribution of copyrighted materials; invasion of privacy; hate speech; and plagiarism. The study ends by suggesting a number of practical and theoretical recommendations for a number of stakeholders.