Catalog Description
Introduces the psychology of deception in human interaction and examines how contemporary technologies shape deception’s production, spread, and detection. Students apply these concepts through in-depth case studies in class and complete an original case study in a domain of their interest as a course project.
Instructor Description
Deception is a fundamental feature of human interaction, and contemporary technologies have reshaped how it is produced, spread, and detected. This course examines that shift. We begin by reviewing theories and concepts from psychology and interpersonal communication (e.g., Truth-Default Theory) on how deception works and how people decide what and whom to trust. We then turn to how the affordances of contemporary technologies alter or sustain these dynamics, drawing on cases such as scams, manipulated media, and deceptive online self-presentation. Throughout, the course considers populations that may be especially vulnerable and what can be done to build resilience. Students apply these concepts through in-depth case studies in class and complete an original case study of a form of technologically mediated deception in a domain of their interest.
Prerequisites
Upper-division standing and Informatics 310U.
Restrictions
Generally restricted to undergradute Informatics majors through registration period 1 and extended to Informatics minors in period 2. Outside students – including iSchool graduate students – will only be accepted during period 3.
Notes
Also offered as Informatics 320S