CMPT 320 day, fall 2003
Social Implications of a
Computerised Society
Course Outline
Department course outline
Intructor:
Sal Gabier
mgabier@sfu.ca
Office: ASB 9911
Office Hours:
Wednesday 3:30 - 4:30, 8:30 - 9:30 (Starting week 3)
TA:
Vipul Mehra
vmehra@sfu.ca
Grading:
15% - Class participation
30% - Exam
15% - Midterm
10% - Tutorials
(Presentation 5% and participation 5%)
15% - Class project
5% - one to two
page essay
5% - one to two
page essay
5% - three one page reflection papers
Description:
This course will critically examine the effects of
computers on society and vice-versa. This course is different from
other computer science courses. It is not technical nor
mathematical. We will also draw from other disciplines, such as
philosophy, sociology, and psychology. Topics will include:
- Utopian outlook on technology
- Pessimestic outlook on technology
- Productivity paradox
- Privacy
- Medium is the message
- Children and Education
- Democracy and freedom of information
- Artificial Intelligence
- Will machines inherit the earth
Academic Dishonesty:
I take this EXTREMELY seriously. If you are caught
cheating, I will do everything in my power to fail you from this
course. If you are a repeat offender, I will do everything in my
power to have you expelled. DON'T CHEAT!!!