The topic of ethical technology development has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations, particularly in recent years as technological advancement continues to shape our society. Based on analysis of past IELTS examinations, questions related to The importance of teaching ethical behavior have appeared with growing frequency, especially in the context of technological innovation.
Task Analysis
Some people believe that the rapid development of technology should be controlled to ensure it is used ethically. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
This question requires candidates to discuss their views on whether technological advancement needs ethical oversight and control. The task specifically asks for an opinion-based response using an agree/disagree format.
Band 9 Sample Essay
The importance of ethical business practices forms the foundation of this high-scoring response:
The unprecedented pace of technological advancement has sparked debate about the need for ethical controls. While some argue for stricter oversight, I strongly agree that implementing ethical controls is crucial for ensuring responsible technological development.
First and foremost, ethical controls are essential to prevent the misuse of powerful technologies. Consider artificial intelligence, which has immense potential for both beneficial and harmful applications. Without proper regulatory frameworks, AI could be deployed in ways that violate privacy rights or enable discrimination. For instance, facial recognition technology, if left unchecked, could lead to unauthorized surveillance and infringement of personal freedoms.
Moreover, ethical guidelines ensure that technological innovation serves humanity’s best interests. Ethical considerations of drone technology demonstrate how crucial it is to balance progress with responsibility. While drones can revolutionize delivery services and disaster response, they also pose risks to privacy and security. Implementing ethical controls helps direct technological development toward beneficial applications while minimizing potential harm.
Furthermore, regulated development promotes accountability among tech companies. When clear ethical guidelines exist, organizations must consider the societal impact of their innovations before deployment. This approach prevents the rush to market of potentially harmful technologies and encourages responsible innovation that considers long-term consequences.
In conclusion, ethical controls are vital for ensuring that technological advancement benefits society while minimizing potential risks. The challenge lies in creating flexible yet effective regulatory frameworks that promote innovation while protecting public interests.
Ethical Controls in Technology Development Decision Making Process
Band 9 Analysis
- Task Achievement: Presents a clear position with fully developed ideas
- Coherence and Cohesion: Logical organization with effective use of paragraphing
- Lexical Resource: Sophisticated vocabulary accurately used
- Grammatical Range: Complex structures with full flexibility and accuracy
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
The question of whether we need to control technology development for ethical reasons is very important today. I agree that some control is necessary but not too much control.
Technology is developing very fast and sometimes this can cause problems. For example, social media companies collect lots of personal data from users and this might not be good for privacy. Also, some new technologies like AI can take away jobs from people. These are reasons why we need some control.
However, too much control can be bad for progress. If companies have too many rules to follow, they might not want to make new technologies. This could mean we miss out on good things like better medical treatments or solutions for climate change. The ethical implications of creating genetically modified animals show how complex these issues can be.
I think the best solution is to have some basic rules that everyone must follow, but not too many rules. Companies should think about ethics when they make new technology, but they should still be able to innovate and create new things.
In conclusion, while some control is needed for ethical reasons, it shouldn’t be too strict because this could stop important progress in technology.
Band 6.5 Analysis
- Task Achievement: Position is clear but ideas lack full development
- Coherence and Cohesion: Basic organization with some linking
- Lexical Resource: Adequate vocabulary with some errors
- Grammatical Range: Mix of simple and complex structures
Key Vocabulary
- unprecedented (adj.) /ʌnˈpres.ɪ.den.tɪd/ – never having happened or existed before
- regulatory framework (n.) /ˈreg.jə.lə.tɔr.i ˈfreɪm.wɜːk/ – system of regulations and guidelines
- infringement (n.) /ɪnˈfrɪndʒ.mənt/ – the action of breaking rules or laws
- accountability (n.) /əˌkaʊn.təˈbɪl.ə.ti/ – responsibility to someone or for some activity
- innovation (n.) /ˌɪn.əˈveɪ.ʃən/ – the development of new ideas or methods
Ensure AI used ethically: how? remains a crucial consideration for future technological development. For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback. Consider related topics such as ethical guidelines in social media, responsible innovation in healthcare technology, or ethical considerations in autonomous vehicles.
