I 310: Topics in Introductory Informatics: Emerging Technologies Past and Present

Once upon a time (the 1990s), the disruptive innovations introduced by emerging technologies seemed poised to unleash unprecedented connectivity, creativity, freedom, empowerment, and equality across the globe. This century has revealed those disruptions to be nowhere as beneficial as once imagined, and new technologies grow more powerful and autonomous by the day. What are the ethics, or moral principles, that guide (or could guide) the programs and programmers behind these technologies? How do we, as producers and consumers in the Digital Age, advance technological change that truly promotes human flourishing?

 

Framed by these inquiries, this course will interrogate the promises, possibilities, and perils of key emerging technologies, past and present. In our study we will foreground questions about the ethical and social dimensions of these technologies and draw historical parallels to earlier periods of disruptive innovation. We will also engage in introductory-level programming exercises. No prior programming skills necessary. Students interested in learning foundational programming skills in a supportive and structured environment are welcome.