Ethical Frameworks for Immersive Technologies: Normative Approaches and Key Recommendations

Authors: Cox, S., Kadlubsky, A., Svarverud, E., Adams, J., Baraas, R. C., & Bernabe, R. D. L. C. (2024). A scoping review of the ethics frameworks describing issues related to the use of extended reality. Open Research Europe, 4(74). https://doi.org/10.12688/openreseurope.16660.1

Summary

The normative approaches to addressing ethical issues were organised into four domains: society and governance, industry, research/academic organisations, and individuals.

Recommendations are:

development and/or application of laws or guidelines to address ethical, legal, and social issues in immersive technologies

– adoption of inclusive approaches to design and development

– minimisation of risk for research participants

– empowerment of users of immersive technologies and

– promotion of responsibility and sincerity in the use of virtual space, especially in matters concerning identity and conduct.

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Code of Conduct

The XR4Human Code of Conduct sets forth the ethical obligations for developers involved in technological innovation and governance of immersive technologies, including Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Mixed Reality (MR), as well as all current and other emerging immersive environments. The Code is designed to ensure that these technologies respect human rights, protect user privacy, promote inclusivity, and safeguard the mental, physical, and social well-being of all users.

1. Learn

Read and become familiar with the XR4Human CoC. Learn by exploring the Educational Toolbox and the publications (on Ethics, Interoperability & Legal policy) in the Rating Repository

2. Assess

Conduct a self-assessment of your own XR technology concept via the Ethical Impact Assessment (EIA) and the CoC Compliance Checklist

3. Test and Explore

Test your idea and get new ideas by exploring the Experience Library

4. Reflect

Reflect on the rating information received after completing your self-assessment and join the XR4Human Forum to revise and improve your XR concept

Use our Tools to implement the Code of Conduct

The following guides provides step-by-step instructions and tools to help you implement the Code of Conduct during your development and deployment processes.