A computer programmer is learning about the importance of acting ethically at work.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2024). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. [4] 1 mark for each bullet point max 2 for public max 2 for colleagues e.g. Colleagues: The programmer should: • Treat colleagues fairly and avoid acts of discrimination • Be prepared to accept / offer critique • so that technical work can be improved • Credit the contributions of colleagues • so that they feel valued / respected • Help / train colleagues etc. e.g. The public: The programmer should: • Maintain the health, safety and welfare of the public • so as not to endanger anyone • Be honest / realistic in making claims about the software • so that public trust is maintained • Maintain the security of the public's data etc.
2. [3] Type of software licence 1 mark for • Open Source Initiative // Free Software Foundation Reason for choice: 1 mark for each bullet point (max 2) • Allows program source code to be examined • so that the business can adapt/modify the program to meet their needs • Allows the programmer to earn money for the software and updates
3. [2] 1 mark for each bullet point (max 2) • To identify themselves as the owner/author // To gain formal recognition of ownership • To allow for legal consequences if anyone steals/copies it • To restrict competition