Hello, and welcome to the Technology and Ethics class. I am an Assistant Professor of Computer Science, teaching both in the software engineering and information technology fields. During my career, I’ve worked with new and emerging technologies regularly, including search, virtual reality, privacy, and now artificial technology. I’ve even worked with new technologies, which have already become extinct and are no longer being used.
There has been an influx in both new technologies and how we view ethics in society. As such, it is good to understand where your ethics are, and if constraints on technology should be put in place.
We’re going to look at a variety of different technologies. While computer (or computer based) technologies is in the forefront, (and my area of expertise) we’re also going to look at topics such as Digital Voting, a Cashless Society, Medical Technology, and more.
Each week there will be readings to do, to prepare for the discussion. We will look at pros and cons for each of the topics, as one thing is sure, anything that can be used to benefit society can also potentially be used to its detriment.
A class discussion is expected of all students each week, and the readings are required before. With each week, we have a short reaction paper that you will need to write.
During the final weeks of the term, you will be expected to present on a relevant topic of your choosing that has not been covered yet. During that time, you will lead the discussion, and give 3 to 5 sources for people to read in preparation for your topic. If enough people are in the class, a topic may be co-lead by two students, one picking the pros of the topic, and one picking the cons of the topic.
Some sample topics you might consider include:
- Specific AI – Stock Trading
- Specific AI – Human Resources and People Management
- Specific AI – College Admittance
- Brain Implants
- Geoengineering (A Climate Risk or Fix)
- etc…
If you think of a topic that isn’t listed here you would like to cover, please speak with me for approval.
Introduction to Technology and Ethics Class was originally found on Access 2 Learn
