Data and information are given meaning within a social context. In this class the ideas of data, information, and computing more broadly, are examined within the context of the current concerns for equity, bias and social justice. The relationships between computing and various topics in social justice will be studied in the venues of:

• computing as a discipline in academia

• computing as an industry

• computing as an shaping factor in a technologically-driven society

Topics of interest include:

• algorithmic bias in machine-learning and AI systems

• concepts of privacy and identity in a digital world

• computing as a force for social good

• bias and barriers in academic institutions

• equity and access in producing and using the products of computing

The course will rely on discussion of papers, blogs, repots, and videos. Students will be expected to select one or more resources for summary and presentation. Guest speakers may also be invited. The grade in the class will be based on the quality of the summary and presentation together with the participation in the discussion.