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The Ethics in Technology course at Western Governors University (WGU) focuses on the moral, legal, and societal issues that arise with the rapid advancement of technology. This course is designed to help students build a foundation in ethical decision-making, specifically in technology-focused environments. The associated exam tests students on key ethical frameworks, legal implications, and real-world case studies where ethical thinking is crucial.

Core Topics Covered:

1. Foundations of Ethical Theory:
   The exam explores major ethical theories such as utilitarianism, deontology, virtue ethics, and social contract theory. Students should understand how to apply these frameworks to evaluate dilemmas in technological contexts—like data privacy, surveillance, or artificial intelligence.

2. Ethical Decision-Making Models:
   A large component of the course involves structured decision-making models. Students are expected to know how to identify stakeholders, assess the consequences of different actions, and apply ethical frameworks to recommend solutions.

3. Technology and Society:
   Ethical issues related to the digital divide, accessibility, and the global impact of technology are emphasized. Learners must be familiar with how technological advancements affect social justice, economic opportunity, and human rights across different cultures.

4. Data Privacy & Security:
   As information systems grow more complex, concerns over cybersecurity, digital identity, and data ownership increase. The exam may include topics related to ethical responsibilities of companies collecting and storing user data, as well as legal frameworks like GDPR and HIPAA.

5. Intellectual Property & Digital Rights:
   The course examines copyright laws, software licensing, and fair use—important for understanding how creative and digital works are protected and shared. Students must recognize the ethical boundaries of file sharing, plagiarism, and content reproduction.

6. Professional Responsibility in Tech:
   Students are tested on professional codes of conduct such as those from ACM (Association for Computing Machinery) or IEEE. These codes guide behavior for IT professionals and developers, emphasizing integrity, fairness, and respect.

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Exam Format and Tips:

The exam is typically multiple choice and scenario-based. Success depends on understanding core concepts, applying ethical reasoning, and practicing with sample case studies. Reviewing course materials, participating in discussions, and using WGU’s provided study guides or cohorts can improve comprehension and retention.

Final Thoughts:

The Ethics in Technology exam prepares students to think critically about the moral implications of their decisions in a digital world. It is not just a test of memorization, but a test of values—challenging future tech professionals to act with integrity in their careers.