Sorry, this page is no longer available

We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.

Computing, Ethics, and Society Foundations

Bobby Schnabel

4.9

Based on 10 ratings

, see reviews

Bobby Schnabel

Computing systems and technologies fundamentally impact the lives of most people in the world, including how we communicate, get information, socialize, and receive healthcare. This course is the first of a three-course sequence that examines ethical issues in the design and implementation of computing systems and technologies and reflects upon the broad implication of computing on our society. It covers ethical theories, privacy, security, social media, and misinformation.

This course can be taken for academic credit as part of CU Boulder’s MS in Computer Science degrees offered on the Coursera platform. These fully accredited graduate degrees offer targeted courses, short 8-week sessions, and pay-as-you-go tuition. Admission is based on performance in three preliminary courses, not academic history. CU degrees on Coursera are ideal for recent graduates or working professionals. Learn more:

MS in Computer Science: https://coursera.org/degrees/ms-computer-science-boulder

Enroll now

Or subscribe to Coursera Plus

And get unlimited access to Coursera

Here's a deal for you

Save money when you learn with a deal that may be relevant to this course.

All coupon codes, vouchers, and discounts are applied automatically unless otherwise noted.

Valid until August 30

Google AI App Builder

Learn how to use Gemini API and API Studio with a three-course series from Google DeepMind

What's inside

Syllabus

Course Overview and Ethical Foundations

In this introductory week, you will delve into the fascinating world of computing, ethics, and society. You will explore the fundamental concepts of ethics and ethical frameworks, providing a solid foundation for the entire course. You will gain insights into key ethical theories, including Kantianism, Virtue Ethics, Utilitarianism, and Social Contract Theory. Through interactive discussions and engaging resources, you will understand how these theories shape our moral decision-making processes and their significance in the context of computing technologies.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Ideal for recent graduates or working professionals looking to advance their careers in computer science

Provides a strong foundation in ethical theories for designing and implementing computing systems

Covers emerging ethical issues in privacy, security, social media, and misinformation

Taught by experienced instructors with a strong background in computer science and ethics

Provides a solid overview of ethical issues in computing and their societal implications

May require some experience in programming or computer science for deeper understanding

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.

Save

Reviews summary

Ethical foundations in computing and society

According to students, this course offers a strong ethical foundation for understanding computing's broad societal impact. Learners consistently praise its coverage of highly relevant topics such as AI ethics, data privacy, social media's influence, and misinformation, finding the content timely and insightful for today's technological landscape. Many highlight the instructor's clear explanations, which effectively clarify complex ethical theories and their real-world applications, making the material accessible and thought-provoking. While the course is generally seen as well-structured and appropriately paced, some learners noted its foundational depth, suggesting it serves as an excellent introduction but might feel introductory for those seeking more advanced or highly technical coverage. Overall, it is considered a crucial course for anyone in the technology field.

Instructor effectively clarifies complex ethical concepts.

"Brilliant course! The instructor did a fantastic job simplifying complex ideas."

"Professor explains complex topics clearly. Highly recommend for anyone working in tech."

"The course opened my eyes to many things I hadn't considered. The clarity of explanations was key."

Provides a clear introduction to ethical theories and their application.

"Loved the breakdown of ethical theories and how they apply to real-world computing issues. Great foundation."

"A valuable course. It brings much-needed ethical perspective to computer science."

"Perfect introductory course to ethics in technology. It's well-paced, and the content is highly relevant."

Covers crucial and current ethical dilemmas in computing.

"Excellent course! Very relevant to today's tech world. The discussions on AI ethics and privacy were insightful."

"This course is a must for developers. It makes you think beyond code and consider the societal implications."

"Really enjoyed this course. The discussions around recommender systems and misinformation were particularly timely and well-explained."

Opinions vary on the balance between theory and practical application.

"Content is okay, but I found some of the ethical frameworks a bit dry. Needed more practical examples for a computer science context."

"Not what I expected. Too much theory, not enough practical application for computing."

"This course allowed me to think critically about ethical dilemmas, balancing theoretical understanding with real-world scenarios."

Offers an excellent overview, but not a deep dive into advanced topics.

"Some parts felt a bit introductory if you're already familiar with the concepts, but still a solid overview."

"Found it somewhat superficial. While it touches on many topics, it doesn't go deep enough for someone looking for a serious academic challenge."

"While it's foundational, it sets the stage well for deeper dives. I wish there were more case studies."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Computing, Ethics, and Society Foundations with these activities:

Understand the Fundamentals of Computing Ethics

Show steps

Reviewing the basic principles of computing ethics will provide a solid foundation for the course and enhance your understanding of ethical considerations in computing.

Browse courses on Ethical Theories

Show steps

Start by reading the introductory materials from the course.
Review the foundational concepts of ethics and ethical frameworks, such as Kantianism, Virtue Ethics, Utilitarianism, and Social Contract Theory.
Explore how these theories shape moral decision-making processes in the context of computing technologies.

Analyze Ethical Case Studies

Show steps

Active engagement with ethical case studies will enhance your ability to apply ethical principles to real-world scenarios in the realm of computing.

Browse courses on Ethical Decision-Making

Show steps

Identify ethical dilemmas and challenges presented in case studies.
Analyze the ethical implications and potential consequences of different courses of action.
Develop and justify your own ethical recommendations based on ethical theories and principles.

Develop an Ethical Framework for a Technology Project

Show steps

The creation of an ethical framework for a technology project will allow you to apply ethical principles to a practical scenario and develop a deeper understanding of their real-world implications.

Browse courses on Ethical Considerations

Show steps

Identify the ethical issues and concerns relevant to the technology project.
Research and analyze existing ethical frameworks and guidelines.
Develop a customized ethical framework that aligns with the specific context and objectives of the project.
Apply the ethical framework to guide decision-making throughout the project's development and implementation.
Evaluate the effectiveness of the ethical framework and make necessary adjustments as needed.

Two other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all five activities

Participate in an Ethics Bowl Competition

Show steps

Participation in an ethics bowl competition will provide a challenging and interactive way to test your understanding of ethical issues in computing and hone your argumentation skills.

Browse courses on Case Analysis

Show steps

Research and prepare for the competition by studying ethical theories, case studies, and current events related to computing ethics.
Analyze and evaluate cases presented during the competition, identifying ethical dilemmas and potential solutions.
Develop and present arguments that support your ethical recommendations, considering both the strengths and limitations of your position.
Engage in respectful and constructive dialogue with other participants to explore different perspectives and deepen your understanding.
Reflect on your performance and seek feedback to continuously improve your ethical reasoning and communication skills.

Contribute to an Open-Source Project Related to Computing Ethics

Show steps

Contributing to an open-source project focused on computing ethics will allow you to engage with a community of experts, apply your skills, and contribute directly to the advancement of ethical considerations in computing.

Browse courses on Open Source

Show steps

Identify open-source projects related to computing ethics and explore their goals and objectives.
Select a project that aligns with your interests and skills and reach out to the project maintainers.
Contribute to the project by submitting bug reports, suggesting improvements, or implementing new features.
Engage in discussions and collaborate with other contributors to enhance the project's ethical impact.
Reflect on your contributions and seek feedback to continuously improve your technical skills and understanding of computing ethics.

Career center

Learners who complete Computing, Ethics, and Society Foundations will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Technology Ethicist

A Technology Ethicist is responsible for advising organizations on the ethical implications of new technologies. This Computing, Ethics, and Society Foundations course can be valuable for Technology Ethicists as it provides a strong foundation in ethical theories and their significance in the context of computing technologies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technology Ethicist

Privacy Officer

A Privacy Officer is responsible for overseeing an organization's privacy program and ensuring compliance with privacy laws and regulations. This Computing, Ethics, and Society Foundations course can be valuable for Privacy Officers as it provides a strong foundation in computer privacy and the legal approaches to safeguarding privacy.

See salaries and explore the career path for Privacy Officer

Compliance Officer

A Compliance Officer is responsible for ensuring that an organization complies with laws, regulations, and ethical standards. This Computing, Ethics, and Society Foundations course can be valuable for Compliance Officers as it provides a strong foundation in ethical theories and their significance in the context of computing technologies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Compliance Officer

Web Developer

A Web Developer is responsible for the design, creation, and maintenance of websites. This Computing, Ethics, and Society Foundations course can be valuable for Web Developers as it delves into topics like recommender systems, internet advertising, and privacy, all of which are highly relevant to the field of web development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Social Media Manager

A Social Media Manager is responsible for developing, implementing, and managing social media strategies for businesses and organizations. This Computing, Ethics, and Society Foundations course can be valuable for Social Media Managers as it delves into topics like the influence of social media on youth, misinformation, and fostering a healthy digital environment.

See salaries and explore the career path for Social Media Manager

Technologist

A Technologist is a professional who works with technology in a variety of roles, such as research and development, design, and implementation. This Computing, Ethics, and Society Foundations course can be valuable for Technologists as it provides a strong foundation in ethical considerations related to computing technologies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technologist

Information Security Analyst

An Information Security Analyst, also known as an Information Security Officer, is responsible for protecting an organization's computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. This Computing, Ethics, and Society Foundations course may be useful as it covers topics like security breaches, ransomware, and ethical hacking, all of which are highly relevant to the field of information security.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Computer Forensic Analyst

A Computer Forensic Analyst is responsible for investigating computer crimes and recovering digital evidence. This Computing, Ethics, and Society Foundations course may be useful as it covers topics like security breaches, ransomware, and ethical hacking, all of which are highly relevant to the field of computer forensics.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Forensic Analyst

Policy Analyst

A Policy Analyst is responsible for analyzing and recommending policies to address public issues. This Computing, Ethics, and Society Foundations course may be useful as it provides a foundation in ethical decision-making and the consideration of ethical implications of computing technologies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Analyst

Risk Analyst

A Risk Analyst is responsible for identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks to an organization's operations. This Computing, Ethics, and Society Foundations course can be valuable for Risk Analysts as it provides a foundation in ethical decision-making and the consideration of ethical implications of computing technologies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Risk Analyst

Technical Writer

A Technical Writer is responsible for creating user manuals, white papers, and other technical documentation. This Computing, Ethics, and Society Foundations course may be useful as it provides a foundation in ethical considerations related to the dissemination of information and the potential for misinformation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer

Information Governance Officer

An Information Governance Officer is responsible for developing and implementing an organization's information governance policies and procedures. This Computing, Ethics, and Society Foundations course may be useful as it provides a foundation in ethical considerations related to data collection, tracking, and anonymity.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Governance Officer

User Experience Researcher

A User Experience Researcher is responsible for understanding the needs and behaviors of users in order to design and improve products and services. This Computing, Ethics, and Society Foundations course may be useful as it provides a foundation in ethical considerations related to user privacy and data protection.

See salaries and explore the career path for User Experience Researcher

Data Scientist

A Data Scientist analyzes data and develops models to help businesses make better decisions. This Computing, Ethics, and Society Foundations course may be useful as it helps build a foundation in ethical considerations related to data collection, tracking, and anonymity.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Software Engineer

A Software Engineer, also known as a Computer Programmer, designs, develops, tests, and maintains software programs for use in a wide variety of applications. This Computing, Ethics, and Society Foundations course may be useful in this field as it helps build a foundation in ethical decision-making processes and their significance in the context of computing technologies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Reading list

We've selected ten books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Computing, Ethics, and Society Foundations.

The Green and The Blue

Save

A comprehensive overview of the ethical issues raised by information technologies, including privacy, security, and the impact on society. Offers a philosophical perspective on the ethical challenges posed by computing systems.

The Green and the Blue: Digital Politics in...

Kindle Edition

Check Price

The Green and The Blue: Naive Ideas to Improve...

Paperback

Privacy and Freedom

Save

A classic work on the concept of privacy, exploring its historical development, legal protection, and ethical implications. Provides a valuable background for understanding privacy issues in the digital age.

The Age of Surveillance Capitalism

Save

A thought-provoking exploration of the ethical implications of surveillance capitalism, where companies collect and analyze data to manipulate behavior. Raises important questions about privacy, autonomy, and the future of society.

The Age of Surveillance Capitalism: The Fight for a...

Paperback

The Age of Surveillance Capitalism: The Fight for a...

Kindle Edition

監控資本主義時代: The Age of Surveillance Capitalism: The...

Kindle Edition

Surveillance Valley

Save

A comprehensive history of the surveillance industry, exploring the ethical implications of data collection and tracking. Provides a detailed account of the rise of surveillance capitalism and the need for ethical safeguards.

Invention

Save

A classic work on the ethical implications of cybernetics, exploring the relationship between humans and machines. Provides a historical perspective on the ethical challenges posed by computing technologies.

Networked Creators, digital original edition

Save

An examination of the impact of social media on society, covering topics such as privacy, echo chambers, and fake news. Offers insights into the ethical responsibilities of social media platforms and users.

Networked Creators, digital original edition

Paperback

Check price

Networked Creators, digital original edition

Kindle Edition

Check price

Mindstorms

Save

A pioneering work on the use of computers in education, exploring the potential of technology to empower children and foster creativity. Provides insights into the ethical implications of technology use in educational settings.

Mindstorms: Children, Computers, And Powerful Ideas

Paperback

Mindstorms: Children, Computers, And Powerful Ideas

Kindle Edition

New Laws of Robotics

Save

An exploration of the ethical implications of algorithms and big data, covering topics such as fairness, transparency, and accountability. Raises important questions about the role of technology in our lives and the need for ethical oversight.

Communication Power

Save

A sweeping analysis of the impact of the information revolution on society, covering topics such as globalization, inequality, and the changing nature of work. Provides a broad perspective on the ethical implications of computing technologies.

The Shallows

Save

A thought-provoking exploration of the impact of the internet on our attention spans, memories, and ability to think deeply. Raises important questions about the ethical responsibilities of technology companies and the role of technology in our lives.

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers: