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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 third 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 medical applications, uses of robotics, autonomous vehicles, and the future of work.
Read more
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 third 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 medical applications, uses of robotics, autonomous vehicles, and the future of work.
Read more
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 third 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 medical applications, uses of robotics, autonomous vehicles, and the future of work.
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
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/v7bi09/ethical
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What's inside
Syllabus
Course Overview
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.
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Syllabus
Course Overview
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.
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Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Taught by Bobby Schnabel, who is recognized for their work in ethical issues in computing
Explores ethical issues in the design and implementation of computing systems and technologies, which is standard in industry
Examines ethical considerations in medical applications, uses of robotics, autonomous vehicles, and the future of work, which is highly relevant to computing ethics
Provides a foundation for ethical decision-making in the context of computing technologies
Develops ethical reasoning skills and knowledge, which are core skills for ethical decision-making
Requires extensive background knowledge in ethics and computing, which may be a barrier for some students
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Reviews summary
Ethical dimensions in computing applications
According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation in ethical issues surrounding modern computing. It is particularly relevant for professionals, delving into topics such as AI, robotics, medical applications, and autonomous vehicles. Many found the discussions thought-provoking and the overall content current and essential for understanding technology's broader societal impact. While the course is broadly comprehensive, some students desired more practical case studies over theoretical discussions, suggesting it serves as an excellent starting point for ethical consideration rather than an in-depth dive for advanced learners. Recent reviews indicate improvements in engagement.
Covers a wide array of ethical issues but some topics may feel surface-level for advanced learners.
"The course felt a bit surface-level in some areas. It introduces many topics, but doesn't always delve deep enough."
"It covers a lot but perhaps too broadly. I wished for more practical case studies rather than just theoretical discussions."
"It serves as a great introduction, but don't expect to become an ethics expert."
Instructors provide valuable insights and make complex ethical topics accessible and engaging.
"The instructor's insights were invaluable, making complex topics accessible."
"The instructors did a good job presenting different viewpoints."
"They clearly took feedback from previous learners and applied it, which is great."
Recent reviews suggest the course has been updated, leading to more current content and engaging discussions.
"I heard older reviews mentioned issues, but this course seems to have been updated. The content feels current."
"The discussions are now much more engaging thanks to improved prompts. The instructor actively participates."
"Older reviews felt very basic or dry, but my experience was that the course felt much more relevant."
Explores critical ethical issues in modern computing, highly relevant for today's tech landscape.
"Fantastic course that really made me think deeply about the ethical implications of AI and robotics."
"As a software engineer, I found this essential for understanding the broader impact of my work."
"A very relevant course for today's world. It touches on many critical areas where technology meets ethics."
"The content feels current, and the discussions are now much more engaging thanks to improved prompts."
Some found assessment methods unclear or peer feedback inconsistent, potentially impacting learning.
"I found the assessment methods a bit unclear at times, and the peer reviews varied widely in quality."
"It made it hard to get consistent feedback on my assignments."
"Discussions could be more structured to facilitate better assessment outcomes."
Strongly emphasizes ethical frameworks and philosophical concepts, less on concrete practical application.
"I expected more concrete examples and less abstract philosophy. It felt too academic for my professional needs."
"While the topics are relevant, it's too theoretical for my taste, and I struggled to connect it to my daily work."
"Sometimes, I wished for more practical case studies rather than just theoretical discussions."
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 Ethical Issues in Computing Applications with these
activities:
Volunteer at a Non-Profit Focused on Tech Ethics
Show steps
Contribute your skills and knowledge to a non-profit organization that promotes ethical practices in the tech industry
Browse courses on
Community Involvement
Show steps
-
Research non-profit organizations focused on tech ethics
-
Apply for a volunteer position that aligns with your interests
Read 'Ethics for the Information Age'
Show steps
Gain insights into the ethical challenges and responsibilities of computing professionals.
View
Ethics for the Information Age
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read and comprehend the key chapters
-
Summarize and present the main ethical theories discussed
Explore Ethical Considerations in Robotics
Show steps
Review the ethical implications of robotics and autonomous systems, fostering a deeper understanding of the potential societal impacts.
Show steps
-
Watch videos and read articles about robotics ethics
-
Join online forums or discussion groups dedicated to robotics ethics
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Solve Ethical Dilemmas in Computing
Show steps
Practice applying ethical frameworks to real-world computing scenarios, enhancing your ability to identify and resolve ethical issues.
Browse courses on
Ethical Theories
Show steps
-
Identify ethical dilemmas in computing
-
Analyze ethical issues using different ethical theories
-
Develop and evaluate potential solutions
Design an Ethical Policy for a Tech Company
Show steps
Create an ethical policy document that outlines a tech company's ethical responsibilities and commitments.
Show steps
-
Research and consult with stakeholders on ethical issues
-
Develop a comprehensive ethical policy document
-
Present the policy to company leadership for review and feedback
Design an Ethical Decision-Making Framework
Show steps
Create a comprehensive framework to guide ethical decision-making in the context of computing systems and technologies, deepening your understanding of the ethical considerations involved.
Browse courses on
Ethical Decision-Making
Show steps
-
Research and analyze existing ethical frameworks
-
Identify key ethical principles and values
-
Develop a systematic process for ethical decision-making
-
Present and share your framework with peers or industry experts
Develop an Ethical AI Application
Show steps
Apply ethical principles to the design and implementation of an AI-powered application, strengthening your understanding of the practical implications of AI ethics.
Browse courses on
AI Ethics
Show steps
-
Identify a real-world problem that could be addressed with AI
-
Develop an AI-based solution that considers ethical principles
-
Test and iterate on your solution based on ethical feedback
Volunteer at a Non-Profit Focused on Tech Ethics
Show steps
Contribute your skills and knowledge to a non-profit organization that promotes ethical practices in the tech industry
Browse courses on
Community Involvement
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research non-profit organizations focused on tech ethics
- Apply for a volunteer position that aligns with your interests
Read 'Ethics for the Information Age'
Show steps
Gain insights into the ethical challenges and responsibilities of computing professionals.
View
Ethics for the Information Age
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read and comprehend the key chapters
- Summarize and present the main ethical theories discussed
Explore Ethical Considerations in Robotics
Show steps
Review the ethical implications of robotics and autonomous systems, fostering a deeper understanding of the potential societal impacts.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Watch videos and read articles about robotics ethics
- Join online forums or discussion groups dedicated to robotics ethics
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Solve Ethical Dilemmas in Computing
Show steps
Practice applying ethical frameworks to real-world computing scenarios, enhancing your ability to identify and resolve ethical issues.
Browse courses on
Ethical Theories
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify ethical dilemmas in computing
- Analyze ethical issues using different ethical theories
- Develop and evaluate potential solutions
Design an Ethical Policy for a Tech Company
Show steps
Create an ethical policy document that outlines a tech company's ethical responsibilities and commitments.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and consult with stakeholders on ethical issues
- Develop a comprehensive ethical policy document
- Present the policy to company leadership for review and feedback
Design an Ethical Decision-Making Framework
Show steps
Create a comprehensive framework to guide ethical decision-making in the context of computing systems and technologies, deepening your understanding of the ethical considerations involved.
Browse courses on
Ethical Decision-Making
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and analyze existing ethical frameworks
- Identify key ethical principles and values
- Develop a systematic process for ethical decision-making
- Present and share your framework with peers or industry experts
Develop an Ethical AI Application
Show steps
Apply ethical principles to the design and implementation of an AI-powered application, strengthening your understanding of the practical implications of AI ethics.
Browse courses on
AI Ethics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a real-world problem that could be addressed with AI
- Develop an AI-based solution that considers ethical principles
- Test and iterate on your solution based on ethical feedback
Career center
Learners who complete Ethical Issues in Computing Applications will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
AI Ethicist
AI Ethicist
AI Ethicists develop and implement ethical guidelines for the development and use of artificial intelligence. They work to ensure that AI systems are fair, transparent, and accountable. This course would be helpful for AI Ethicists because it provides a foundation in ethical theories and frameworks, and it explores the ethical considerations of AI, such as the future of work and the impact on workers and employers.
Medical Ethicist
Medical Ethicist
Medical Ethicists help ensure the ethical treatment of patients in healthcare settings. They develop and implement policies and procedures that promote ethical decision-making, and they advise healthcare professionals on ethical issues. This course would be helpful for Medical Ethicists because it provides a foundation in ethical theories and frameworks, and it explores the ethical considerations of medical applications, such as gene editing and neural implants.
Autonomous Vehicle Engineer
Autonomous Vehicle Engineer
Autonomous Vehicle Engineers design, build, and test self-driving cars. They work to ensure that autonomous vehicles are safe and reliable. This course would be helpful for Autonomous Vehicle Engineers because it explores the ethical and safety considerations of autonomous vehicles, including the potential benefits and challenges they present to society.
Robotics Engineer
Robotics Engineer
Robotics Engineers design, build, and maintain robots. They work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and defense. This course would be helpful for Robotics Engineers because it explores the ethical considerations of robotics in diverse domains, such as healthcare, warfare, and policing.
Healthcare Data Analyst
Healthcare Data Analyst
Healthcare Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to improve the quality and efficiency of healthcare services. They work with healthcare providers, insurers, and other stakeholders to identify trends and patterns in healthcare data. This course would be helpful for Healthcare Data Analysts because it explores the ethical dimensions of medical data, including issues of privacy, consent, and security in healthcare information systems.
User Experience Researcher
User Experience Researcher
User Experience Researchers study how users interact with products and services. They work to improve the usability and satisfaction of products and services by understanding the needs and wants of users. This course would be helpful for User Experience Researchers because it provides a foundation in ethical theories and frameworks, and it explores the ethical considerations of computing applications in a variety of domains.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts research, analyze, and make recommendations on public policy issues. They work with government agencies, non-profit organizations, and businesses to develop and implement policies that address social and economic problems. This course would be helpful for Policy Analysts because it provides a foundation in ethical theories and frameworks, and it explores the ethical considerations of computing applications in a variety of domains, such as healthcare, robotics, and autonomous vehicles.
Software Engineer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. They work in a variety of industries, including healthcare, finance, and technology. This course would be helpful for Software Engineers because it provides a foundation in ethical theories and frameworks, and it explores the ethical considerations of computing applications in a variety of domains.
Data Scientist
Data Scientist
Data Scientists collect, analyze, and interpret data to extract insights and knowledge. They work in a variety of industries, including healthcare, finance, and technology. This course would be helpful for Data Scientists because it provides a foundation in ethical theories and frameworks, and it explores the ethical considerations of computing applications in a variety of domains.
Product Manager
Product Manager
Product Managers develop and manage products and services. They work with engineers, designers, and marketers to bring products to market. This course would be helpful for Product Managers because it provides a foundation in ethical theories and frameworks, and it explores the ethical considerations of computing applications in a variety of domains.
Project Manager
Project Manager
Project Managers plan, organize, and manage projects. They work with teams of people to achieve project goals and objectives. This course would be helpful for Project Managers because it provides a foundation in ethical theories and frameworks, and it explores the ethical considerations of computing applications in a variety of domains.
Business Analyst
Business Analyst
Business Analysts help organizations to improve their performance by analyzing business processes and systems. They identify areas for improvement and develop solutions to address them. This course would be helpful for Business Analysts because it provides a foundation in ethical theories and frameworks, and it explores the ethical considerations of computing applications in a variety of domains.
Consultant
Consultant
Consultants provide advice and guidance to organizations on a variety of topics. They help organizations to solve problems, improve performance, and achieve their goals. This course would be helpful for Consultants because it provides a foundation in ethical theories and frameworks, and it explores the ethical considerations of computing applications in a variety of domains.
Technical Writer
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create user manuals, technical documentation, and other written materials. They work with engineers, scientists, and other experts to translate complex technical information into easy-to-understand language. This course would be helpful for Technical Writers because it provides a foundation in ethical theories and frameworks, and it explores the ethical considerations of computing applications in a variety of domains.
Teacher
Teacher
Teachers educate students at all levels, from preschool to college. They develop lesson plans, teach lessons, and assess student learning. This course may be useful for Teachers because it provides a foundation in ethical theories and frameworks, and it explores the ethical considerations of computing applications in a variety of domains.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/v7bi09/ethical
Reading list
We've selected six 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
Ethical Issues in Computing Applications.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the ethical issues surrounding information technology, including privacy, security, intellectual property, and free speech. An especially useful reference for students seeking contextual background for the course's ethical frameworks and theories.
Save
Delves into the ethical implications of robotics across various domains, from healthcare to warfare and policing. An excellent resource for in-depth exploration of topics covered in the course's robotics module.
Examines the ethical implications of artificial intelligence, including issues of autonomy, responsibility, and social justice. A valuable resource for students seeking a comprehensive overview of the ethical dimensions of AI.
This classic work in medical ethics offers a comprehensive framework for ethical decision-making in healthcare settings. Especially useful background reading for students exploring ethical considerations in medical applications.
Examines the potential impact of AI and robotics on the future of work and the economy. Particularly relevant for students exploring the ethical implications of AI in the workplace.
Provides practical guidance on ethical decision-making in the context of information technology. A helpful reference for students seeking to apply ethical frameworks to real-world scenarios.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/v7bi09/ethical
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Effort
5-7 hours/week for 5 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Colorado Boulder
Instructor
Bobby Schnabel
Language
English
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Computing, Ethics, and Society. It's comprised of three courses:
- Computing, Ethics, and Society Foundations
- Ethical Issues in AI and Professional Ethics
- Ethical Issues in Computing Applications (viewing)
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