Incorporating Knowledge of Legal and Ethical Aspects into Computing Curricula of South African Universities

Abstract

As students in computing disciplines are introduced to modern information technologies, numerous unethical practices also escalate. With the increase in stringent legislations on use of IT, users of technology could easily be held liable for violation of this legislation. There is however lack of understanding of social aspects of computing, and institutions have not integrated many of these aspects into their curricula. The present study investigates the extent to which legal and ethical issues relating to IT are integrated in the undergraduate curricula in South African Universities. It also examines the factors that impede such integration.