This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
This module is concerned with social and cultural transformations brought about by the rapid developments of digital technologies. It will introduce case studies of major technological developments and their impact on culture and society. Topics will include: the digital divide, cybercrime, surveillance, automation and AI, virtual communities, digital transformations and future technological trends, technology and ethics, transhumanism and cyborgs, identity in the age of the internet.
Contact hours 42
Private study 258
Total Hours 300
Team Presentation (20%) – 15 minutes per student
Research paper (60%) of 2,500-words - individual
Student-led seminars (20%) – 1-hour –student-led seminar
Carr, N. (2011) The Shallows: How the Internet is Changing the Way We Think, Read and Remember. London: Atlantic Books
Gere, C. (2008) Digital Culture. London:Reaktion Books
Gillespie. A. (2015) Cybercrime. Oxon: Routledge
Selwyn, N. (2016) Is Technology Good for Education? Cambridge: Polity Press.
Turkle, S. (1996) Life on the Screen: Identity in the Age of the Internet, London: Weidenfeld & Nicolson.
Vaidhyanathan, Siva (2008) The Googlization of Everything (And why we should worry). Berkeley: University of California Press.
The intended subject specific learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Describe major developments in societal studies of science and technology and understand their societal impact
2 Critically reflect on, analyse and evaluate current and future impact of digital technologies on culture and society
3 Apply a critical approach to the use and misuse of digital technologies
4 Present their research findings
The intended generic learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Think critically and apply reasoning and reflection
2 Make a presentation to an audience
3 Learn effectively for continuing professional development
4 Manage their time and resources
5 Work effectively as a member of a team
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