Computer Science Symposia

Computer Science & Information Technology Symposium 2003

Session Presentations

Ethics in the Age of Napster and MP3
by Betsy Frederick & Celia Einhorn

In this collaborative session teachers will explore the ethical issues underlying one of the new technologies—MP3 files. After a discussion of what MP3 file format is and how it works, we will divide into groups to play several of the roles involved in the use of MP3s (music lover, Beastie Boy, Metallica drummer, recording company executive). Following the role-playing, we will share the chief arguments presented by each point of view. Our goal is to provide a framework for classroom discussion of copyright laws. A list of online resources will also be provided.

• Presentation (PDF, 68 KB, PDF Instructions)
• Cartoons

Commentary:

This presentation not only modeled the usefulness of group work and collaboration, but raised too many of the thorny ethical questions which make this topic both challenging and essential to teach. Participants noted the difficulty of teaching students not to do what they see happening all around them. They also considered the fact that in many cases, ethics seem to be generational rather than consistent and static. One explanation put forward for the widespread use of illegal copying is that many people, and certainly not just students, also see this as a victimless crime. Teachers noted also that many copyright-infringement practices are widespread: think about the Xerox machine and video sharing.

Hosted by

and

, and sponsored by

.

For more information, please contact Linda Keller, Project Manager, ISTE at: lkeller@iste.org.