Each student will write a research paper about an ethically controversial, technology related practice, product or event. This is not an opinion paper. Be sure to see the Research Paper Guidelines for specific instructions about the research paper requirement for this course.
Students will have the ability to choose from a variety of topics about which to write their papers. A list of suggested topics will be provided; students can choose other topics which do not appear on the list, but in this case, approval should be obtained from the instructor prior to beginning work on the paper. You can email me about your proposed topic as soon as you know what you would like to work on; the sooner, however, you obtain approval if you wish to work on a topic which does not appear on the list, the better.
How will the Paper Be Graded:
The paper description says that the length is 1100 - 1350 words, which is 4.5 - 5.6 pages using 12 point Times New Roman (but students can use any reasonable font they wish). Although we consider issues such as grammar and style in a minor way (10% of the grade), the content, organization, and clarity are the most important factors.
Presentation Guidelines:
During one of the last 6 class sessions, each student will give a 7 to 9 minute classroom presentation presenting the content of research which the student does on another technology related practice, product, or event. Each student will need to conduct research on a different topic from the topic of their paper, and submit a set of slides presenting their research findings to the instructor at least two weeks prior to the date of the presentation. During the first two weeks of the term, you will need to sign up for a presentation day. Once the slots for a particular day are filled, students will need to choose another day. You must give your presentation on your scheduled class day (that is, there will be no make ups for missed presentations). Single presentations are 7 to 9 minute presentations. However, if you are interested in pairing up with another student in the class for a “debate” type format on the same topic or a closely related topic, that is also an option. The presentation in that case will present a topic with one student arguing in favor of a certain view of the topic subject and the other arguing against it. These “double” presentations should be about 14 to 18 minutes in length.
Please note: This is not an opinion class, per say. Although we will spend quite a bit of time discussing personal opinions about issues related to technology and computing, we will be learning concrete codes of ethics for guiding professional behavior that may result in your being challenged in what you believe or think. It is my job to present these codes to you and engage all of you in bringing your current opinions into our discussions. This is a part of my role as the instructor of this class. Please do not take it personally if you feel challenged to think differently than you already do; rather, I believe you should be offended if you are not challenged to do this.