College Seminar (101-7-23)

Topic

Data, Technology, and Society

Instructors

Morgan Thompson

Meeting Info

Kresge Centennial Hall 2-335: Mon, Wed 3:30PM - 4:50PM

Overview of class

Through technologies like smartphones, social media, and Large Language Models, we produce digital traces of our everyday lives. Most of this data is collected and analyzed by governments, businesses, and scientists who use algorithms and data analytics to make decisions that impact our lives. There are two broad narratives about the societal implications of big data and technology. On one hand, technologies can improve health, increase access to education, produce economic efficiency and growth, and stimulate more green energy projects. On the other hand, when governments or companies use algorithms and machine learning to supplement or even supplant human decision-making, fundamental values like responsibility, fairness, and authenticity may be at risk. Will Big Data and machine learning usher in a new age of enlightenment and prosperity or undermine our values and result in an erosion of autonomy, self-determination, and workers' rights?

In addition to the academic content, this College Seminar will focus on improving the critical reading, thinking, writing, and time-management skills that will serve you well in your future Northwestern courses. We will also focus on setting and evaluating your own academic goals for the quarter. This seminar may serve as a space of social and advising support to aid in your transition to university and the increased academic expectations of college-level work. We will discuss grades and perfectionism, resources for help during challenges, unwritten professional norms in professor-student interactions, maintaining academic integrity, and identifying credible sources.

Learning Objectives

1. Recalibrate critical reading, writing, thinking, and research skills for college-level study.
2. Cultivate the speaking and listening skills necessary for college-level seminars.
3. Develop personal study habits and routines that will help you excel across the curriculum at Northwestern.
4. Acquire professional and social communication skills particular to college.
5. Practice methods of self-care grounded in writing and personal reflection.

Class Materials (Required)

All class materials will be available on Canvas at NO cost to the student.

Class Attributes

WCAS College Seminar

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Weinberg First Year Seminars are only available to first-year students.
Add Consent: Department Consent Required
Drop Consent: Department Consent Required