IFSM 304 at University of Maryland Global Campus is a study of ethics and of personal and organizational ethical decision making in the use of information systems in a global environment. It is a three-credit course, with IFSM 201 recommended.
The aim is to identify ethical issues raised by existing and emerging technologies, apply a structured framework to analyze risk and decision alternatives, and understand how personal ethics and organizational values shape an ethical workplace.
Many students struggle with the move from opinion to analysis. The course expects you to use a recognized framework and show why one option is better supported than another.
Course at a Glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| University | University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) |
| Course code | IFSM 304 (3 credits) |
| Level | Undergraduate, upper level |
| Recommended | IFSM 201 |
| Subject area | Information technology ethics |
| Typical work | Scenario analyses, discussions, written papers (general; confirm in your classroom) |
What IFSM 304 Covers
| Theme | What to examine |
|---|---|
| Ethical decision making | Personal and organizational choices about technology |
| Ethical issues in current and emerging technology | Privacy, security, fairness and responsibility |
| Structured analysis frameworks | Steps for weighing risks and alternatives |
| Personal ethics and organizational values | How both shape the workplace |
| Global environment | Differences in law and culture across borders |
Key Concepts Explained
Applying a Structured Framework
Use the framework your course teaches. Typically it moves from identifying the issue and stakeholders, to listing options and consequences, to choosing and justifying. Show each step so that your reasoning can be followed.
Invented illustration: A company can collect extra customer data to improve a service. The analysis lists stakeholders (customers, staff, regulators), options (collect, limit, ask consent), likely consequences for each and recommends the option that best protects privacy while meeting business needs.
Personal Ethics and Organizational Values
Individuals bring their own principles to work, while organizations set policies and a culture. Conflicts arise when they differ, so papers should say how a professional would respond, such as raising a concern through proper channels.
Typical Assignments and How to Approach Them
| Assignment type | What it tests | How to approach it |
|---|---|---|
| Scenario analysis | Applying a framework | Follow the framework steps with headings |
| Discussion posts | Reasoned engagement | State a position, give reasons and consider an objection |
| Position or policy paper | Argument supported by sources | Cite codes of conduct, laws and scholarly work |
| Emerging technology review | Spotting issues early | Describe the technology, then analyze risks and safeguards |
Using Professional Codes and Law
Professional codes of conduct, such as those published by computing societies, give recognized standards you can cite. Laws set minimum requirements; ethics often asks for more.
- Cite the code or law by name, with the relevant provision.
- Say whether the law requires, permits or is silent on the action.
- Explain what ethics adds beyond legal compliance.
Since the course has a global focus, note when rules differ between countries.
Analyzing Emerging Technology
The description mentions emerging technologies, which means you may face a case that has no settled answer. Say so, then reason from principles.
- Describe what the technology does and who uses it.
- Identify who benefits and who could be harmed.
- Apply your framework to the main options.
- Recommend safeguards and say what you would monitor.
Admit uncertainty where evidence is thin; it makes the argument more credible.
Where Students Get Stuck
- Opinion without framework. Show the steps you used.
- One-sided analysis. Consider each stakeholder.
- Confusing legal and ethical. Treat them separately.
- Outdated cases. Choose current examples and check dates.
Study Tips for IFSM 304
- Practice the framework on three different news stories.
- Keep a list of ethical principles with a one-line definition.
- Always state your recommendation and the main trade-off.
- Check the rubric for how many sources are expected.
How We Help with IFSM 304
Send the scenario, prompt, rubric and feedback. A writer can prepare a custom analysis, explain the framework, or review your draft for logic and citations. Related reading: our HUMN 344 Technology and Culture page.
GradeEssays is independent and not affiliated with UMGC. Our work is a study and reference aid: use it to understand the method, then submit your own work under UMGC's academic integrity policy. Orders are written from scratch, include free revisions within the scope of your original request, and are refunded in full if late.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Ethical decision making in the use of information systems in a global environment.
UMGC lists it as recommended.
The one taught in your classroom. It typically moves from issue to options, consequences and justified choice.
No. The focus is on ethical analysis, though you should understand the technologies discussed.
It appears in some information systems programs. Check your degree plan.
No. Grades are decided by your instructor.