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Emerging Dilemmas in Digital Technology Policy (STEP0012)

Key information

Faculty
Faculty of Engineering Sciences
Teaching department
Science, Technology, Engineering and Public Policy
Credit value
15
Restrictions
N/A
Timetable

Alternative credit options

There are no alternative credit options available for this module.

Description

The world is changing rapidly and understanding the ways that digital technologies impact the global economy, national security, critical infrastructures, healthcare, employment, information integrity, or human rights is an essential skill for the next decades. Maximizing digital technology opportunities without compromising established principles and rights will require people who think differently and can exercise imagination, sound reasoning and a vision for the future.

This module examines dilemmas and critical tensions in digital technology policy. Policy making for digital technologies – whether in government, the private sector or any other organization – requires balancing wide ranging interests, values and power dynamics. For emerging digital technologies, a single intervention is rarely the silver bullet. With so many options on the table, so many possible futures and so many interdependencies, how do those in decision-making or advisory roles know which way to turn?

This module is not oriented to providing definitive answers. Instead, we will critically evaluate different interventions and consider the broader governance mechanisms that are needed to achieve the responsible adoption of emerging digital technologies.

Each week, we will explore a new topic that covers some of the most pressing digital technology policy questions we have today. For instance, how do we manage cybersecurity risk? How do we govern algorithmic decision systems? Do we need stricter antitrust rules in digital markets? Is privacy dead? How do we respond to the rise of misinformation and disinformation? We will push your critical thinking, challenge your positions, and help you to better understand how your own values and ideas about the world shape your perceptions of what constitutes ‘good’ digital technology policy.

Module deliveries for 2024/25 academic year

Intended teaching term: Term 2 ÌýÌýÌý Undergraduate (FHEQ Level 7)

Teaching and assessment

Mode of study
In person
Methods of assessment
0%
Mark scheme
Numeric Marks

Other information

Number of students on module in previous year
0
Module leader
Dr Irina Brass
Who to contact for more information
steapp.mpa.admin@ucl.ac.uk

Intended teaching term: Term 2 ÌýÌýÌý Postgraduate (FHEQ Level 7)

Teaching and assessment

Mode of study
In person
Methods of assessment
100% Coursework
Mark scheme
Numeric Marks

Other information

Number of students on module in previous year
31
Module leader
Dr Irina Brass
Who to contact for more information
steapp.mpa.admin@ucl.ac.uk

Last updated

This module description was last updated on 8th April 2024.

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