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Course Number: CSCI 3050
Diverse Perspective Course, First Year Appropriate, Writing Intensive, No prior computer science classes required.
Class Meetings: Tuesday and Thursday ( 9:00 AM - 10:20 AM EST)
Course Delivery : Canvas and via Zoom
Course Type: Remote, Synchronous lecture sessions
Dr. Tania Roy (troy@ncf.edu)
Office Hours : 2:30 - 4:30 PM Tuesday ( Zoom)
via Zoom : https://ncf.zoom.us/j/4701240023?pwd=N1M2MFNsOHZ6eXpxME1yWXVUeHBUdz09
Meeting ID: 470 124 0023
Passcode: trncf
Required TextBook
We will be using the book Computers, Ethics and Society, 3rd Edition by M. David Ermann and Michele S. Shauf. Copies of this book are available at the bookstore. The third edition is required because earlier versions predate the spread of the internet. The book is 15 years old, and used copies are plentiful online for between $5-$10. Amazon has a number for sale.
Second, all other readings materials will be posted on Canvas
Finally, students will need a computer, working microphone, camera and stable internet connections
Learning Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
At the end of this course, students should be able to:
Describe at least two distinct ethical frameworks, and give examples of scenarios where they recommend different courses of action.
Given a topic related to the societal impact of a technology, and a perspective on the proper use or regulation of that technology, provide a short, compelling, and logical argument supporting the assigned perspective, and the opposite perspective.
Draft a compelling position paper that uses multiple arguments rooted in different ethical frameworks, appropriate rhetorical techniques, and factually correct supporting evidence, to argue a position of the student's choice.
Present an assigned viewpoint to a large audience, and answer extensive questions on the viewpoint.
Participate comfortably in written or spoken discussions of issues related to the social and ethical impact of technologies, and express well informed opinions.
Evaluation
The instructor's evaluation of the students will focus on the intended learning outcomes of the course. The evaluation is holistic, but important components will include:
Completing Canvas quizzes throughout the semester, to demonstrate completion of the assigned readings.
Completing the 4 writing assignments found on the course webpage.
Participating in at least 2 Role Playing Exercises
Demonstrating rhetorical skills and understanding of course content during the midterm and final examinations
Regular participation in class discussions, or in the online discussions in the class forum.
Final project - topic of exploration will be chosen by the student group. This can be a case study, investigative work, proposed solutions to problem etc. A short final paper and presentation will be due at the end of the semester
Commonly asked questions
Who should take this course?
Anyone interested in technology and the impact of unchecked growth it has on our society. Students from all AOCs and backgrounds are welcome. To have a respectful dialogue in understanding the problems and identifying areas improvement is the purpose of this course.
If interested in exploring the CS AOC or Minor should I take this course?
Absolutely! Other introductory courses that you can take with this are : Introduction to Programming in Python, Machine Learning for Visual Thinkers, Dealing with Data 1 etc.
Can I create software if I want to for the final project?
Yes!
I am interested in CS why do I need to read / write academic research papers?
It is a misconception that computer scientists/programmers do not need to read or write academic papers. The purpose of this class is to introduce and hone effective reading and writing skill. Communicating ideas in the most effective way is a skill which everyone needs irrespective of discpline. We will read research papers and other articles for class to give everyone a broad perspective. The TAs, WRC, Research Librarians and I will be there every step of the way to support this process. :)
In addition to taking this course : explore these organizations and their work in the area of Ethics, Society and Computers.
Treat everyone with kindness and respect
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