F1TG 4100 - Fundamentals of Technology and its Societal Impact in the Digital Era

Introduction to the social study of technology. Students will be introduced to fundamental theories of technology developed in the history and sociology of science, and will learn how these theories are applied in empirical research on the uses and impacts of technologies in a variety of contexts. Historical and contemporary examples of globally impactful technologies will be used as case studies; the course also places a strong thematic focus on computing, data, networking, and modern digital technology generally.

Learning Outcomes

• Foundational understanding of key social theories of technology, including an appreciation for how technology is studied by social scientists.
• Ability to understand, critique, and respond to popular analyses of technology (e.g., in the news).
• Ability to integrate “technical” and “social” perspectives in the analysis of technology with an appropriate degree of balance and audience sensitivity.

None.

Students will receive written feedback on their midterm exams, as well as oral feedback on their final presentations. Additional feedback is available on a 1-1 basis by attending office hours.

• Midterm written exam (40%). Students will work individually to write responses to short questions. Exam to be held in person (exact date TBD).
• Final oral exam (50%). Students will develop a short oral presentation using concepts from the course to discuss a technological topic that interests them, to be selected by the middle of the term (exact date TBD).
• Participation in seminar (10%). Students will participate in seminar by attending regularly and asking questions before, during, and/or after class about the readings and lecture material for the week. Students can also fulfill participation expectations by attending office hours.

• Attendance: 2 hours a week / 24 hours a semester
• Online learning activities: 0 hours a week / 0 hours a semester
• Reading and Preparation for Class: 6 hours a week / 72 hours a semester
• Research and Preparation for Group Work: 0 hours a week / 0 hours a semester
• Research and Writing for Individual Assessments: 4.5 hours a week / 54 hours a semester