Edexcel 1CP2 · Topic 5 · 5.4b

Responsible Use
of Technology

Ethics for Individuals · Health & Wellbeing · Accessibility · Inclusion

CSZoneEdexcel GCSE Computer Science 1CP2

Ethical Responsibility

Using Technology Ethically

Do not copy, modify, or distribute software without a licence — this is illegal under copyright law

Do not access computer systems without authorisation — Computer Misuse Act offence

Respect others' privacy — do not share personal information or images without consent

Acknowledge sources: using others' code, images, or text without attribution is plagiarism

As a programmer: consider the social impact of the software you create — could it harm users?

Health & Wellbeing

Physical and Mental Health

Physical: prolonged screen use can cause eye strain (20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds). Poor posture leads to RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury) and back problems. Sedentary use reduces physical activity.

Mental health: excessive social media use is linked to anxiety, depression, and poor self-image, especially in young people

Screen addiction: compulsive checking of devices disrupts sleep (blue light) and reduces face-to-face interaction

Accessibility & Inclusion

Technology for Everyone

Accessibility: technology should be usable by people with disabilities. Screen readers, voice control, captions, high-contrast modes, and adjustable text sizes all improve inclusivity.

Digital divide: not everyone has equal access to technology — gaps exist across age, income, geography, and ability

Responsible design: web developers should follow WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) to make content accessible

E-inclusion initiatives: efforts to ensure elderly, disabled, and low-income groups can participate digitally

Exam Practice

Have a go at this question

Edexcel-style question

Describe two ways technology developers can make their products more ethically and socially responsible.

4 marks

Design products with accessibility in mind [1] so users with disabilities can use assistive features such as screen readers [1]. Ensure software does not collect unnecessary personal data [1], reducing privacy risks and complying with data protection legislation [1].

Key Takeaways

What to Remember

Responsible use: respect copyright, don't hack, protect privacy, acknowledge sources

Health: eye strain (20-20-20 rule), RSI, posture; mental health risks of social media

Accessibility: design for all users; screen readers, captions, high-contrast, voice control

Digital divide: unequal access to technology; e-inclusion initiatives aim to bridge this gap