Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/justice-and-equity-in-technology-policy
In today’s world, technology is an omnipresent force that not only shapes our daily lives but also influences public policy in profound ways. For marginalized communities, the intersection of technology and policy is particularly critical. A great course to explore this topic is the ‘Justice and Equity in Technology Policy’ offered on Coursera.
This course is structured over six weeks, each focusing on different yet interconnected themes that delve into how values, inequities, and biases are embedded in technology. The syllabi are designed thoughtfully, beginning with ‘How do Values Shape Technology?’ which establishes a foundation by discussing the social and political values that influence technology design. Students will engage with quizzes and discussion prompts that encourage introspection and application of concepts learned.
The second week, ‘Technology and Equity,’ digs deeper into the embedded biases and language that often lead to inequity in technology. It’s eye-opening to see how prevalent biases can obscure the realities of marginalized groups. The inclusion of quizzes helps reinforce the material while stimulating discussions among peers.
Moving onto ‘Technology Policy and Equity,’ this week highlights how governmental policies are influenced by social priorities and the existing biases in technology regulation. This is a crucial topic, especially as it illustrates the gap between policy intentions and outcomes, especially for those disadvantaged.
The course then challenges conventional ideas in the week dedicated to ‘Rethinking Expertise.’ It invites participants to question what expertise means and who gets to be considered an expert in discussions about technology. This culminates in an opportunity to apply learning through a peer-reviewed assignment, encouraging collaboration and critical thinking.
In the fifth week, ‘Rethinking Design,’ students learn about community-based design principles and a framework for responsible innovation. This week is particularly engaging as students are encouraged to practically apply their knowledge in another peer-reviewed project, reinforcing the importance of equitable design practices in technology.
Finally, the course concludes with ‘Rethinking Policy and Governance,’ focusing on ways to improve technology governance for equitable outcomes and fostering democratic engagement. The final assignments test the participants’ understanding and provide a comprehensive overview of the entire course’s learnings.
This course is not just informative but transformative. It prompts reflection, encourages critical engagement with complex issues, and provides the tools to advocate for justice and equity in technology policy. For anyone interested in the synergy between technology and social equity, this course comes highly recommended.
Check it out on Coursera and join a community of learners committed to making technology a more equitable space for everyone.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/justice-and-equity-in-technology-policy