Overview

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An examination of social processes that are being automated and implications for good and evil, that may be entailed in the automation of procedures by which goods and services are allocated. Examination of what are dehumanizing and humanizing parts of systems and how systems can be designed to have a humanizing effect. Breadth-Science.

COURSE DETAILS:

Instructor's Objectives

The general goal of this course is to provide an opportunity for participants to deepen their awareness and to reflect with a critical, inquisitive and informed eye about some selected issues in our society which are especially influenced by the extensive and intensive usage of technology and networked communications in our lives. We will explore social and ethical theories including technological determinism, act utilitarianism among others, which will provide us a framework for our discussions. We will aim to explore the various issues from multiple perspectives. No prior background in sociology or communications is expected. The topics that we will address will include those described in this outline, subject to modifications; part of the topics discussed may also be determined by the interests of students and in general, the topics addressed will be subject to time availability. We will alternate between lessons, talks by invited speakers, watching videos, doing a diverse style of assignments, and doing individual and group activities both in class and outside class. Students will be expected to do readings and/or other assignments outside of class, and we will discuss and apply related topics in class, often as group activities. Assigned readings will be selected from the recommended textbooks and others, as will be described in class. This is not a W (Writing intensive) course, however students will be expected to do some writing assignments. The prepare-materials-lesson-then-activity format will repeat itself throughout the course.

Topics

• Introduction to Social Science and Technological Theories
• Ethical Theories
• Privacy
• Intellectual property
• Internet Culture
• Social Media
• Cybercrime and Cybersecurity
• Journalism and Technology
• Professional Ethics and Conduct
• Environment and Technology
• Big Data
• AI and Robotics

Grading

Materials

RECOMMENDED READING: