Assignment:
Questions:
1. Some people have proposed establishing legal standards and regulations to govern safety-critical computer-based systems.
a. Give and explain a few of the best arguments for and against such a proposal (at least two on each side). Give counter-arguments against the arguments for each side.
Note: the "counter-arguments" you are asked to give should oppose or answer the arguments on the other side as directly and convincingly as possible. They should not be simply unrelated arguments on the opposite side of the issue.
b. Describe two provisions that may be included in such regulations. How effective do you feel each provision would be?
2. For the following scenario, identify at least 3 stakeholders. List at least 2 possible actions. How would each possible action affect each of the 3 stakeholders (give at least one possible consequence for each stakeholder and each possible actions - 6 total)? Which action would you take? Why? - Use ACM code or SE code (specify the number) where appropriate to justify your answer.
3. a. Briefly describe the major factors that contributed to the failure of any one of the following: the Denver Airport baggage system failure, or the Ariane 5 rocket malfunction.
b. Briefly describe how professional techniques for increasing reliability and safety could have prevented these failures.
4. Explain the ethical and social implications of "offshoring". Consider the issue from the perspective of both U.S. employees and foreign employees. Consider the issue from the perspective of companies hiring foreign workers.