Ethical-Legal Problems with Computer Use and Suggestions for Best Practices: A National Survey
Susan Jacob, John C. Brantley · School Psychology Review · 1987
A survey of 268 school psychologists (125 NASP and 143 CTASP members) was conducted to explore the nature and extent of ethical-legal problems associated with computer applications in school psychology. One-third of the respondents reported that ethical-legal problems with computer use have occurred in their service area. Sixty-five percent indicated that problems related to computer-assisted test interpretation had a strong likelihood of occurring in their service area; 62% anticipated problems associated with computerized record-keeping. Only 37% of the respondents had consulted NASP and APA ethical codes and standards for guidance in computer use. A number of the respondents familiar with available documents indicated a need for more specific guidance regarding computer use in the schools. Suggestions for “best practices” consistent with existing ethical and legal documents but more specific to computer applications in school psychology are outlined.