COM424 - IT Professional Practice

1.1 Explain the concept of Profession, Professional, and Professional Practice in IT

Profession: the profession refers to use of computerized machinery and other

techniques related thereto; that is, the vocation, like other professions such as Law,
Medicine, Pharmacy, and Architecture.

Professional: A member registered in the category of at least member, who holds a

current valid license, issued by the Council, making him eligible to practice the
Profession in the country, save that such a member is not an honorary member or an
honorary fellow.

Professional Practice: refers to the conduct and work of someone from a particular
profession. Examples: practice of IT, medicine, dentistry, building etc.

1.2 Basic requirements for IT professional practice.

The minimum degree that most IT jobs require is a bachelor's degree in any of the
following areas of study which includes computer science, information technology,
information technology management and computer engineering.

The core qualities of a professional practitioner are:

i) Values and attitudes.
ii) Integrity both with themselves and with others.
iii) Independence-to be free of secondary interests with other parties.
iv) Competence.
v) Organizational Ability.
vi) Discretion-care with communications.

1.3 Professional bodies and their roles e.g. Computer Professionals Registration
Council of Nigeria (CPN), Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), British Computer
Society (BCS) etc.

A professional body is an organization with individual members practicing a profession or

occupation in which the organization maintains an oversight of the knowledge, skills,
conduct and practice of that profession or occupation. Example practicing of Science,
Medicine, law, IT.

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COMPUTER PROFESSIONAL BODIES IN NIGERIA:
The following are the list of computer science professional bodies in Nigeria

1. Computer Professionals Registration Council of Nigeria (CPN).

2. Nigeria Computer Society (NCS)
3. Information Technology Association of Nigeria (ITAN)
4. The Institute of Software Practitioners of Nigeria (ISPN)
5. The Nigerian Association of Computer Science Students (NACOSS)

CPN REGISTRATION
CPN registration is the process of becoming a registered member of the Computer
Professionals Registration Council of Nigeria (CPN). Registration with the CPN is a
requirement for anyone practicing or seeking to practice as a computing professional in
Nigeria.
To register with the CPN, an individual must meet certain requirements, which include:

1. Possession of a recognized degree in Computer Science or any other computing-

related field from an accredited institution.
2. Completion of a recognized professional certification program in computing such as
Oracle, Microsoft, Cisco, or CompTIA.
3. Completion of the mandatory one-year National Youth Service Corps (NYSC)
program for graduates.
4. Payment of registration fees and submission of the completed registration form and
other supporting documents.

ROLES OF COMPUTER PROFESSIONALS’ REGISTRATION COUNCIL OF

NIGERIA (CPN NIGERIA):

The Computer Professionals Registration Council of Nigeria (CPN) is responsible for

controlling and supervising the Computing Profession in Nigeria.
It regulates what values of knowledge and skills are to be attained by individuals seeking to
become members of the computing profession and advances those values from time to time
as conditions may permit.

It creates and sustains a registered persons seeking to be listed to practice the computing
profession in Nigeria and distributes it from time to time of the list of those persons.

Also, it creates and equipped a program of authorization of computer training institutions

in Nigeria.

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FUNCTIONS OF THE CPN INCLUDE:
1. To enable an individual to acquire the basic skills and knowledge of becoming a
member of the organization.
2. Guaranteeing great computing professional Morals and Values.
3. Formulating and maintaining of local and worldwide contacts of members.
4. Reducing charges in some specific professional services and amenities.
5. Admitting professional exams in computing in partnership with the Nigeria Computer
Society

CPN MEMBERSHIP
Membership in the Computer Professionals Registration Council of Nigeria (CPN) is open
to individuals and corporate organizations that meet the criteria set out by the Council.
CPN membership is important for individuals and organizations that are involved in the
computing profession in Nigeria.
To become a member of CPN, an individual must be a registered member of the Council and
must have paid the annual membership fees. Corporate organizations can also become
members of the CPN by registering their computing departments or units.

The benefits of CPN membership include access to professional resources, networking

opportunities, and the opportunity to participate in CPN-sponsored events and activities.
Members are also eligible for discounts on CPN-sponsored events and training programs.

HOW TO JOIN THE COMPUTER PROFESSIONAL REGISTRATION COUNCIL

OF NIGERIA.

To register as an individual member,

▪ Go to https://cpn.gov.ng/apply/online_apply_individual/
▪ Click the start Registration link
▪ Pay the Application fee of NGN10,000.00 online,
▪ submit the completed form
▪ Upload CV (curriculum vitae), and other copies of the credentials.
▪

Note: Registered members are required to pay an annual license fee to renew the
practitioner’s license.

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MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES & REQUIREMENTS
Membership is open to; Information Technology Professionals, and Practitioners.

FULL MEMBER
▪ People with B.Sc./HND in Computer Science and Information Technology can join
with five years of work experience in Computing/IT.
▪ People with M.Sc./M. Tech in Computer Science and Information Technology can
join with three years of experience in Computing/Information Technology.
▪ People with B.SC./HND can join in Computer Science/Information Technology at
least three years’ professional experience.
▪ Must pass the CPE exams in Computer Profession.
ASSOCIATE MEMBER
▪ People with B.Sc./HND in Computer Science and Information Technology with five
years’ experience.
▪ People with MSc in Computer Science and Information Technology with two years of
experience.
▪ People with B.Sc./HND in Computer Science and Information Technology with two
years of experience.
▪ Must pass the Computer Professional Examination (CPE) II
GRADUATE MEMBER
▪ People with B.Sc./HND in Computer Science and Information Technology with three
years of experience.
TECHNOLOGIST MEMBER
▪ National Diploma
▪ Computer Professional Examination
▪ Certification Examinations
STUDENT MEMBER
Students studying computer science, Computer Engineering, Information Technology in any
of the universities is recognized.

COMPULSARY PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT (CPD)

The CPD requirement is mandatory for all registered members of the CPN. The CPD
program is designed to ensure that members of the Council remain up to date with the latest
developments in the computing profession. The CPD program includes training programs,
conferences, seminars, and other professional development activities.

Note: Failure to renew CPN registration before the expiration date may result in penalties
and the loss of the individual’s registration status. It is important to renew registration on
time to avoid any negative consequences.

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What are the roles of IT professional bodies?

• Define professional standards for their members.

• Enforce standards of professional conduct.
• Accredit courses for their members at the pre-service level and for continuing
professional development.
• Give the public, the sector and government assurance that services are being
delivered by qualified and expert professionals who are self-regulating based on a
code of professional practice.
• Provision of continuous professional development

Registering with a professional body has several benefits

• Professional recognition: You are recognized as having achieved a certain level of
competency in your field.
• Improved career opportunities and salary prospects.
• Greater influencer within your organization.
• Opportunities to connect with influential and inspirational people.
• International recognition of your professional competence and commitment.

2.1 Explain Morals, Ethics and Laws

Morals:

Morals are principles or habits with respect to right or wrong conduct. They are personal or
communal standards that define what is considered right or wrong, good or bad.

Characteristics:

• Personal/Subjective: Morals are often influenced by individual beliefs, upbringing,

culture, and religion.
• Internal Compass: They guide personal behavior and choices, reflecting an
individual's sense of right and wrong.
• Consistency: Morals tend to be consistent within a person or group but can vary
greatly between different cultures and individuals.

Examples:

• Believing that honesty is important.

• Considering it wrong to steal from others.
• Feeling obligated to help those in need.

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Ethics

Definition: Ethics are a system of moral principles and rules of conduct recognized by a
particular group or culture. They are more formalized and often pertain to professional or
social standards.

Characteristics:

• Group/Institutional: Ethics are often codified in professional codes of conduct, legal

standards, or cultural practices.
• Rational Framework: They provide a systematic framework for analyzing and
resolving moral dilemmas.
• External Guidelines: Ethics serve as external guidelines for behavior, often enforced
by social institutions or professional bodies.

Examples:

• Medical ethics require doctors to prioritize patient welfare and confidentiality.

• Business ethics involve practices like fair trading, transparency, and accountability.
• Research ethics ensure the integrity and ethical treatment of research subjects.

Laws

Definition: Laws are rules established by a governing authority to maintain order and protect
persons and property. They are enforced by governmental institutions and have legal
consequences for violations.

Characteristics:

• Formal and Written: Laws are formally enacted by legislative bodies and
documented in legal codes.
• Enforcement: There are established mechanisms for enforcing laws, including police
and judicial systems.
• Mandatory Compliance: Compliance with laws is mandatory, and non-compliance
can result in penalties such as fines, imprisonment, or other legal sanctions.

Examples:

• Traffic laws regulate how vehicles operate on roads.

• Criminal laws prohibit activities like theft, assault, and fraud.
• Civil laws govern contracts, property ownership, and family relationships.

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2.2 Explain the code of ethics/bye laws of relevant professional bodies e.g. Computer
Professionals of Nigeria (CPN), NCS, AITP, BCS etc.

CPN Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct: The CPN is responsible for regulating and
controlling the practice of Information Technology in Nigeria. Its code of ethics guides IT
professionals in maintaining standards.

Key Principles:

1. Integrity:
o Uphold honesty and trustworthiness in all professional dealings.
o Avoid engaging in deceptive practices.
2. Competence:
o Maintain and improve professional knowledge and skills.
o Provide services only within their areas of competence.
3. Confidentiality:
o Respect and protect the confidentiality of information.
o Avoid unauthorized disclosure of information.
4. Objectivity:
o Provide unbiased and objective advice.
o Avoid conflicts of interest that could impair judgment.
5. Professional Behavior:
o Comply with relevant laws and regulations.
o Act in a manner that maintains the profession's reputation.
6. Social Responsibility:
o Contribute positively to society and the environment.
o Promote ethical use of information technology.

Common Elements in Professional Codes of Ethics

While different professional bodies tailor their codes of ethics to their specific fields, several
common elements typically appear:

1. Integrity and Honesty: Professionals are expected to be truthful and transparent in

their actions.
2. Confidentiality: Respecting and safeguarding the privacy of information is crucial.
3. Competence: Continuous professional development and acting within one's areas of
expertise are essential.
4. Fairness and Objectivity: Providing unbiased services and avoiding conflicts of
interest are key principles.
5. Compliance with Laws: Adhering to relevant legal standards and regulations is
mandatory.

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 6. Social Responsibility: Professionals are encouraged to consider the broader impact of
their actions on society and the environment.

Importance of Adhering to Codes of Ethics

1. Trust and Credibility: Adherence to a code of ethics enhances public trust in the
profession.
2. Professionalism: It promotes a high standard of professionalism among members.
3. Guidance: It provides a framework for making ethical decisions and resolving
dilemmas.
4. Accountability: It holds professionals accountable for their actions.
5. Reputation: It protects and enhances the reputation of the profession as a whole.

2.3 Explain the obligations of IT professional to fellow professionals, employer, the

nation, and society.

Obligations of IT professional to fellow professionals

Fellow members of the Profession, therefore I shall uphold the ideals of the Profession
cooperating with fellow members and always treating them with honesty and respect.

Obligations of IT professional to employer

My employer or client whose trust I hold, therefore, I shall serve him faithfully and loyally,
endeavoring to discharge this obligation to the best of my ability, guarding his interest and
advising him wisely and honestly.

Obligations of IT professional to the profession

As a professional, therefore, I shall acquire, maintain and improve professional competence,

promote the advancement of Computer Science as well as the understanding, effective and
efficacious deployment of computational machinery, computerized machinery and
techniques related thereto, and enhance the prestige of the Profession.

Obligations of IT professional to the nation

My country, therefore, in my personal, business and social contacts, I shall always uphold
my nation, respect and honor the chosen way of life of fellow citizens, be law abiding,
transparently honest, of unquestionable integrity, and utmost responsibility and reliability.

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2.4 Explain the sanctions for violating code of ethics of the profession

Violations of a professional’s code of ethics can result in a range of sanctions, varying in

severity depending on the nature and gravity of the violation. Here are some common
sanctions:

1. Reprimand

• Description: A formal expression of disapproval, typically documented in the

individual's professional record.
• Impact: May affect the professional's reputation but does not usually entail further
penalties.

2. Fines

• Description: Financial penalties imposed on the individual or organization.

• Impact: Can range from nominal amounts to substantial fines, depending on the
violation's severity.

3. Suspension

• Description: Temporary removal of the right to practice the profession.

• Impact: The professional is barred from practicing for a specified period, affecting
income and professional standing.

4. Revocation of License

• Description: Permanent removal of the right to practice the profession.

• Impact: The professional is no longer legally allowed to work in their field,
effectively ending their career in that profession.

5. Probation

• Description: A period during which the professional's practice is monitored under

specific conditions.
• Impact: Allows the individual to continue practicing under scrutiny, often with
requirements to undergo additional training or supervision.

6. Mandatory Training or Education

• Description: Requirement to complete additional training or educational programs.

• Impact: Aims to address the professional's deficiencies and prevent future violations.

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7. Community Service

• Description: Requirement to perform a certain number of hours of community

service.
• Impact: Intended as a corrective measure and to give back to the community.

8. Restitution

• Description: Compensation to the victims of the unethical behavior.

• Impact: Financially compensates those harmed by the violation, aiming to rectify the
damage done.

9. Public Disclosure

• Description: Public announcement of the violation and the sanctions imposed.

• Impact: Damages the professional’s reputation and serves as a deterrent to others.

10. Criminal Charges

Description: In cases where the violation is also a breach of law, criminal charges may be
filed.

• Impact: Can result in legal penalties such as imprisonment, in addition to

professional sanctions.

2.4 Explain Copyright, patent, trademark, and intellectual property,

Copyright

Definition: Copyright is a form of intellectual property protection granted by law to the

creators of original works of authorship, such as literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic
works. This includes books, music, films, paintings, computer software, and more.

• Purpose: To protect the creator's exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, perform,

display, and create derivative works from their original creation.
• Duration: Generally, it lasts for the lifetime of the creator plus 70 years after their
death (though this can vary by country).

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Patent

Definition: A patent is an exclusive right granted for an invention, which is a product or a

process that provides a new way of doing something or offers a new technical solution to a
problem.

• Purpose: To encourage innovation by giving inventors the right to exclude others

from making, using, selling, or distributing the patented invention without permission.
• Duration: Typically lasts for 20 years from the filing date of the application, if
maintenance fees are paid.

Trademark

Definition: A trademark is a sign capable of distinguishing the goods or services of one

enterprise from those of other enterprises. Trademarks can include words, logos, symbols,
designs, or combinations of these elements.

• Purpose: To protect brand identity by ensuring that consumers can identify and
differentiate between products or services from different sources.
• Duration: Can last indefinitely if the trademark is in use and periodic renewal fees
are paid (usually every 10 years, depending on the jurisdiction).

Advantages of Obtaining Copyright

Obtaining copyright protection for creative works offers several significant advantages.
Some basic benefits include:

1. Exclusive Rights

Absolute Control: The copyright holder has exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute,
perform, display, and create derivative works based on the original creation. This control
allows the copyright owner to decide how the work is used and exploited.

2. Legal Protection

Enforcement: Copyright protection gives the owner the legal right to take action against
unauthorized use or infringement. This can include suing for damages or obtaining
injunctions to prevent further infringement.

3. Economic Benefits

Monetary Compensation: Copyright owners can license their works to others for a fee, sell
their rights, or collect royalties. This can be a significant source of income for creators.

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Market Advantage: Owning copyright can provide a competitive advantage, allowing
creators to capitalize on their unique works without competition from unauthorized copies.

4. Moral Rights

Attribution: Copyright law often includes moral rights, which protect the creator's right to
be credited for their work. Integrity: Creators have the right to object to derogatory
treatments of their work that could harm their reputation.

5. Asset Creation

Intellectual Property: Copyright creates a tangible asset that can increase in value over
time. This asset can be sold, transferred, or inherited. Investment Attraction: Owning
copyright can attract investors, as it provides a measure of security and potential for revenue
generation.

6. International Protection

Global Reach: Through international agreements and treaties, such as the Berne
Convention, copyright protection extends to many countries worldwide, providing a broad
scope of protection.

7. Encouragement of Creativity

Incentive: Copyright incentivizes creativity by ensuring creators can reap the benefits of
their work. Knowing their efforts are protected encourages more investment in producing
creative works.

8. Promotion of Originality

Innovation: Copyright protection encourages originality and innovation, as it rewards

unique and new works, fostering a diverse and rich cultural landscape.

9. Control Over Adaptations

Derivative Works: Copyright owners can control and benefit from adaptations of their
work, such as translations, dramatizations, or new formats (e.g., film adaptations of a novel).

10. Branding and Recognition

Reputation Building: Copyrighted works can contribute to building a brand and

establishing a reputation, as the exclusive control over the work ensures consistent quality
and association with the creator.

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2.5 Explain Piracy and Plagiarism

Piracy

Definition: Piracy refers to the unauthorized use, reproduction, or distribution of copyrighted

material. This includes activities like illegally downloading or distributing movies, music,
software, books, and other forms of media without the permission of the copyright owner.

• Examples:
o Downloading movies or music from unauthorized websites.
o Distributing copies of software without a license.
o Sharing e-books or other digital content through unauthorized channels.
• Consequences:
o Legal penalties such as fines and imprisonment.
o Civil lawsuits resulting in damages paid to the copyright holder.
o Loss of revenue for creators and legitimate distributors.
• Impact:
o Reduces the incentive for creators and companies to produce new content.
o Undermines the economic viability of creative industries.

Plagiarism

Definition: Plagiarism is the act of using someone else's work, ideas, or expressions without
proper acknowledgment, presenting them as one's own. This can involve copying text,
images, music, or other creative content without giving credit to the original source.

• Examples:
o Copying text from a book, article, or website and including it in an essay
without citation.
o Using someone else's research findings or data in a report without proper
attribution.
o Submitting a purchased or borrowed assignment as one's own work.
• Consequences:
o Academic penalties such as failing grades, suspension, or expulsion.
o Damage to reputation and credibility in professional and academic
communities.
o Legal consequences if the plagiarized material is copyrighted.
• Impact:
o Undermines the integrity of academic and professional work.
o Devalues the original work of creators and researchers.
o Erodes trust in published work and research findings.

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2.6 Outline the laws relating to copyright, patent, trademark, intellectual property,
piracy and plagiarism etc.

The laws relating to copyright, patent, trademark, intellectual property, piracy, and
plagiarism in Nigeria:

1. Copyright Law in Nigeria

• Purpose: Protects original works of authorship including literary, musical, and artistic
works.
• Key Legislation: Copyright Act, Cap C28, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria
2004: The primary legislation governing copyright protection in Nigeria.
• Rights Granted: Exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, perform, display, and
create derivative works.
• Duration: Generally, the life of the author plus 70 years for literary, musical, and
artistic works; 50 years from publication for sound recordings and broadcasts.

2. Patent Law in Nigeria

• Purpose: Protects inventions by granting exclusive rights to the inventor.

• Key Legislation: Patents and Designs Act, Cap P2, Laws of the Federation of
Nigeria 2004: Governs the registration and protection of patents and industrial
designs in Nigeria.
• Rights Granted: Exclusive rights to make, use, sell, or distribute the patented
invention.
• Duration: 20 years from the filing date, subject to payment of annual maintenance
fees.

3. Trademark Law in Nigeria

• Purpose: Protects brand names, logos, and symbols used to identify goods or
services.
• Key Legislation: Trademarks Act, Cap T13, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria
2004: Governs the registration and protection of trademarks in Nigeria.
• Rights Granted: Exclusive rights to use the mark in commerce and to prevent others
from using a confusingly similar mark.
• Duration: Initially 7 years from the date of application, renewable indefinitely every
14 years.

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4. Intellectual Property Law in Nigeria

• Purpose: Encompasses the laws that protect creations of the mind, including
copyright, patents, and trademarks.
• Key Legislation: National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion
(NOTAP) Act: Promotes the acquisition and domestication of foreign technology.
o Intellectual Property laws (Copyright Act, Patents and Designs Act,
Trademarks Act): Various laws providing comprehensive IP protection.
• Rights Granted: Vary depending on the type of intellectual property (e.g., copyrights,
patents, trademarks).

5. Piracy Law in Nigeria

• Purpose: Addresses the unauthorized reproduction and distribution of copyrighted

material.
• Key Legislation:
o Copyright (Video Rental) Regulations, 1999: Addresses video piracy
o Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC): The regulatory body responsible
for enforcing copyright laws and combating piracy.
• Rights Enforced: Prevents unauthorized copying, sharing, and distribution of
copyrighted content.
• Consequences: Legal penalties, including fines and imprisonment.

6. Plagiarism Law in Nigeria

• Purpose: Addresses the misrepresentation of someone else's work as one's own.

• Key Legislation:
o Educational Institution Policies: Nigerian universities and academic
institutions have strict anti-plagiarism policies enforcing academic integrity.
o Copyright Law: Plagiarism can also be a violation of copyright law if the
plagiarized material is copyrighted.
• Rights Enforced: Ensures proper attribution and credit for original work.
• Consequences: Academic penalties, reputational damage, and potential legal
consequences if copyright is infringed.

Enforcement and Remedies in Nigeria

• Enforcement Agencies:
o Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC): Enforces copyright laws.
o National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP):
Promotes and enforces IP laws.
o Trademarks, Patents and Designs Registry: Administers the registration of
trademarks, patents, and designs.

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• Remedies:
o Injunctions: Court orders to stop infringing activities.
o Damages: Monetary compensation for losses incurred.
o Seizure and Destruction: Confiscation and destruction of infringing goods.
o Criminal Penalties: Fines and imprisonment for severe violations, particularly
piracy.

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