Professional Conduct and Standards in Computer Science: A Comprehensive Guide

Question 1

Which ethical principle contradicts the code of conduct for computer science professionals?

Accepted Answer

Prioritizing personal interests above ethical principles

Answer

Respecting user privacy and safeguarding data

Answer

Observing copyright laws and intellectual property rights

Answer

Assuming accountability for actions and decisions

Question 2

Which of the following is NOT a fundamental responsibility of computer science professionals?

Accepted Answer

Maximizing profits for their employers

Answer

Pursuing continuous professional development

Answer

Protecting the privacy of users

Answer

Adhering to legal and regulatory requirements

Question 3

Which of the following is a recommended approach for addressing ethical dilemmas?

Accepted Answer

Consulting with colleagues, experts, and professional organizations

Answer

Relying solely on personal judgment

Answer

Delegating the decision to a higher authority

Answer

Ignoring the ethical implications

Question 4

What is the initial stage in applying ethical principles to practical situations?

Accepted Answer

Identifying the ethical issues involved

Answer

Consulting with stakeholders

Answer

Developing a solution that aligns with ethical values

Answer

Seeking external legal advice

Question 5

Which of the following fundamental ethical principles in computer science emphasizes the obligation to do good and avoid harm?

Accepted Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Maleficence

Answer

Justice

Answer

Autonomy

Question 6

What is the primary purpose of having professional codes of conduct in computer science?

Accepted Answer

To provide ethical guidelines and standards of practice

Answer

To restrict the freedom and autonomy of professionals

Answer

To promote unfair competition among professionals

Answer

To impose harsh punishments for any misconduct

Question 7

What is the primary role of a whistleblower in maintaining professional conduct in computer science?

Accepted Answer

To expose unethical or illegal practices and misconduct

Answer

To protect themselves from retaliation and personal harm

Answer

To disrupt the workplace and cause chaos

Answer

To gain personal advantage and recognition

Question 8

Which of the following is NOT a desirable trait or characteristic of a professional computer scientist?

Accepted Answer

Bias and prejudice

Answer

Integrity and ethical behavior

Answer

Competence and technical proficiency

Answer

Honesty and trustworthiness

Question 9

In computer science, how does stakeholder analysis aid in ethical decision-making?

Accepted Answer

By recognizing the varied interests and viewpoints of those affected by the decision

Answer

By ensuring strict compliance with legal requirements

Answer

By prioritizing personal preferences and prejudices

Answer

By eliminating the potential for ethical dilemmas

Question 10

What is the main purpose of the Data Protection Act 1998?

Accepted Answer

To protect individuals from the misuse of their personal information

Answer

To regulate the use of computers in the workplace

Answer

To promote the development of new technologies

Answer

To prevent fraud and cybercrime

Question 11

What is a computer scientist's ethical obligation regarding intellectual property?

Accepted Answer

To respect the rights of authors and inventors

Answer

To ensure that software is free from copyrighted material

Answer

To promote the unrestricted sharing of information

Answer

To avoid any involvement with copyrighted works

Question 12

Which organization is responsible for accrediting computer science degrees in the UK?

Accepted Answer

The Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA)

Answer

The British Computer Society (BCS)

Answer

The Engineering Council

Answer

The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)

Question 13

What is the primary goal of the IEEE Code of Ethics?

Accepted Answer

To encourage ethical behavior in the field of electrical and electronic engineering

Answer

To establish minimum standards for professional conduct

Answer

To protect the interests of IEEE members

Answer

To advance the development of new technologies

Question 14

Which of the following is NOT a step in the ethical decision-making process?

Accepted Answer

Making a decision without considering the consequences

Answer

Identifying the ethical issues

Answer

Gathering information and perspectives

Answer

Consulting with colleagues or experts

Question 15

Define moral courage and explain its significance in upholding ethical conduct in the workplace.

Accepted Answer

Moral courage is the fortitude to advocate for what is right, despite potential personal repercussions.

Answer

Moral courage is only necessary in situations with clear ethical dilemmas.

Answer

Moral courage is predominantly a characteristic of individuals in leadership roles.

Question 16

Which fundamental ethical principle is paramount in computer science professional conduct?

Accepted Answer

Honesty and integrity

Answer

Secrecy and confidentiality

Answer

Ambition and competitiveness

Answer

Selflessness and humility

Question 17

What is the primary purpose of adhering to professional standards in computer science?

Accepted Answer

Safeguarding clients and stakeholders

Answer

Enhancing personal reputation

Answer

Meeting legal obligations

Answer

Gaining recognition and rewards

Question 18

Which of the following is NOT a responsibility of a computer science professional?

Accepted Answer

Prioritizing personal gain over ethical considerations

Answer

Maintaining current knowledge and skills

Answer

Acting in the best interests of clients

Answer

Respecting privacy and confidentiality

Question 19

What is the primary function of a code of ethics in the computer science profession?

Accepted Answer

Providing guidance for ethical decision-making

Answer

Ensuring compliance with legal regulations

Answer

Promoting best practices in software engineering

Answer

Preventing unfair competition among professionals

Question 20

Which of the following scenarios represents a situation where whistleblowing might be considered in computer science?

Accepted Answer

Reporting unethical or illegal practices within an organization

Answer

Disclosing security vulnerabilities to the media

Answer

Criticizing a colleague's technical abilities

Answer

Revealing confidential company information to a competitor

Question 21

In the United Kingdom, which regulatory body is responsible for setting and monitoring professional standards in computer science?

Accepted Answer

Professional Standards Authority (PSA)

Answer

Healthcare Professions Council (HPC)

Answer

General Medical Council (GMC)

Answer

National Health Service (NHS)

Question 22

Which ethical principle emphasizes the obligation to prevent harm and minimize risks?

Accepted Answer

Non-maleficence

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Justice

Answer

Autonomy

Question 23

Which UK organization provides ethical guidance for the computing profession?

Accepted Answer

BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT

Answer

Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)

Answer

Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)

Answer

World Wide Web Consortium (W3C)

Question 24

What is the primary purpose of a code of ethics in computer science?

Accepted Answer

To guide ethical decision-making

Answer

To regulate the profession

Answer

To inform the public

Answer

To promote innovation

Question 25

Which of the following is NOT a responsibility of a computer science professional?

Accepted Answer

Using social media irresponsibly

Answer

Maintaining confidentiality

Answer

Reporting ethical violations

Answer

Protecting intellectual property

Question 26

How does 'data ethics' differ from 'professional ethics' in computer science?

Accepted Answer

Data ethics focuses on the ethical use of data, while professional ethics focuses on the conduct of individuals

Answer

Professional ethics focuses on the ethical use of data, while data ethics focuses on the conduct of individuals

Answer

There is no distinction between these terms

Answer

Data ethics is a broader concept that encompasses professional ethics

Question 27

What is the paramount ethical obligation of computer science professionals?

Accepted Answer

Protecting the public's best interests

Answer

Adhering to legal regulations

Answer

Maximizing financial gains

Answer

Advancing their own careers

Question 28

Which ethical principle prioritizes safeguarding individuals' personal data in computer science?

Accepted Answer

Confidentiality

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Non-maleficence

Answer

Justice

Question 29

Which of the following is not a core ethical principle in computer science?

Accepted Answer

Convenience

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Justice

Question 30

Which of the following best describes a core ethical principle in computer science?

Accepted Answer

Being honest and transparent in dealings with others

Accepted Answer

Protecting the rights of creators and ensuring their work is not used without permission

Answer

Seeking personal gain above all else

Answer

Disregarding the potential impact of one's work on society

Question 31

Which of the following is a fundamental tenet enshrined in the British Computer Society (BCS) Code of Conduct?

Accepted Answer

Act with integrity and professionalism at all times

Answer

Prioritise personal gain ahead of the public's well-being

Answer

Maintain confidentiality except when legally required

Question 32

What is the primary reason for adhering to ethical standards in the field of computer science?

Accepted Answer

To ensure responsible use of technology and safeguard the public's interests

Answer

To avoid legal repercussions

Answer

To earn recognition and accolades

Question 33

Which of the following actions constitutes a breach of the principle of confidentiality?

Accepted Answer

Disclosing patient data without obtaining informed consent

Answer

Requesting user feedback on a software product

Answer

Sharing knowledge and expertise with colleagues for professional development

Question 34

What are the potential repercussions of failing to adhere to professional conduct standards?

Accepted Answer

Damage to reputation, potential legal action, and disciplinary measures

Answer

Increased job opportunities

Answer

Endorsements from professional organizations

Question 35

When making ethical decisions in computer science, which factor should be given the highest priority?

Accepted Answer

Considering the potential impact on individuals, society, and the environment

Answer

Being guided by personal beliefs and values alone

Answer

Prioritizing financial gain

Question 36

What is the primary function of professional organizations in promoting ethical conduct in computer science?

Accepted Answer

Establishing standards, offering guidance, and enforcing adherence to ethical principles

Answer

Lobbying for government regulations

Answer

Certifying computer science professionals

Question 37

Which of the following is essential for maintaining professional competence in computer science?

Accepted Answer

Continuously acquiring new knowledge and enhancing skills

Answer

Being employed in a computer science-related role

Answer

Obtaining a professional certification

Answer

Possessing a university degree in computer science

Question 38

What is the primary objective of whistleblower protection in computer science?

Accepted Answer

To provide a safe mechanism for reporting unethical or illegal practices

Answer

To protect individuals from legal action by their employers

Answer

To ensure that organizations are held accountable for their actions

Question 39

Which of the following is a crucial aspect of responsible social media use in the context of computer science?

Accepted Answer

Being mindful of potential risks to privacy and security

Answer

Using social media solely for personal branding

Answer

Posting only positive and uplifting content

Question 40

How does adhering to professional conduct standards benefit computer science professionals?

Accepted Answer

Enhances reputation, fosters career advancement, and contributes to job security

Answer

Guarantees that individuals will remain current with the latest technologies

Answer

Significantly reduces stress and workload