Course

20809291 Technology and Society
Course Information
Description
This sociology course introduces students to the field of Science and Technology Studies. Examines its history, the role of science and technology in our everyday lives, and applications of science and technology. Topics include AI, surveillance, medicine, the role of the market in science and technology, the role of data, and the ethical consequences of technology.
Total Credits
3
Course Competencies (Course Outcomes)
  1. Differentiate between science and technology
    Assessment Strategies
    In-class assignment
    Reflection paper
    Quiz
    Criteria
    Define science and technology
    Summarize differences between science and technology

  2. Summarize different schools of thought within science and technology studies
    Assessment Strategies
    In-class assignment
    Reflection paper
    Criteria
    Include all elements from each school of thought
    Explain all elements from each school of thought in a concise manner

  3. Differentiate different schools of thought within science and technology studies
    Assessment Strategies
    In-class assignment
    Reflection paper
    Criteria
    Distinguish characteristics between schools of thought
    Recognize different approaches from corresponding scholars
    Differentiate between levels of analysis or application from each school of thought

  4. Apply different schools of thought to particular object of study
    Assessment Strategies
    In-class assignment
    Reflection paper
    Criteria
    Apply different schools of thought to a single object of study
    Illustrate accurate efficacious application of different schools of thought
    Communicate different outcomes after applying schools of thought
    Distinguishes between positive and negative outcomes of applying different schools of thought

  5. Demonstrate high level of knowledge regarding biotechnology’s interaction with society
    Assessment Strategies
    Research paper.
    In class debate-discussion panel
    Criteria
    Define biotechnology
    Describe changes in society based upon biotechnological  innovations
    Defend a position in an in-class debate over current ethical dilemmas within the practice of biotechnology

  6. Demonstrate high level of knowledge regarding social media’s interaction with society
    Assessment Strategies
    Research paper
    In class debate-discussion panel
    Criteria
    Define social media
    Describe changes in society due to innovation in social media
    Defend a position in an in-class debate over current  ethical dilemmas within the use of social media

  7. Define core Concepts
    Assessment Strategies
    Formative assessments
    Criteria
    Defines core concepts
    Apply core concepts in problem sets

  8. Analyze current topic in biotechnology or social media through sociology
    Assessment Strategies
    Final project
    Criteria
    Demonstrate understanding of the research topic
    Demonstrate the ability to conduct research using academic literature
    Interpret current research in academic literature
    Synthesize information on a research topic
    Display information to the class
    Communicate the  research project to the class