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.
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.
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For more information, please contact Linda Keller, Project Manager,
ISTE at:
lkeller@iste.org.
| Ethics in the Age of Napster and MP3, Betsy Frederick, Celia Einhorn, cartoons |
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