PSC 401P - Big Data, Politics and Society

(3 units) CO9

Explores the nature and history of data as an epistemological innovation from the advent of language to modern “Big Data” IT infrastructures. Using theories of technological change, we consider social and political implications.

Maximum units a student may earn: 3

Prerequisite(s): Junior or Senior standing.

Grading Basis: Graded
Units of Lecture: 3
Offered: Every Spring - Even Years

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. explain how advances in information technology relate to crucial challenges for public policy and governance.
2. explain the fundamentals of information theory and binary digit-based information systems.
3. employ technology-savvy reasoning methods in their own examinations of social issues.
4. describe how scientific and technological developments affect society and relate to social change.
5. identify the historical, economic, cultural, and/or societal impacts of revolutions in information technology.
6. analyze the ethical concerns of such issues as surveillance, privacy, automated data analysis and decisions impacting individuals and communities.
7. articulate ways in which society is transformed by information technology.
8. integrate, synthesize, and apply knowledge of the relationship between information technology and societal issues.

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