Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/technology-shaping-democracy-2020-election
In an era where technology plays a pivotal role in shaping political landscapes, understanding its impact on democracy is more crucial than ever. Coursera’s course titled ‘How Technology is Shaping Democracy and the 2020 Election’ offers an insightful exploration of this intersection, particularly in the context of the historic 2020 U.S. presidential election.
The course is led by esteemed instructors Rob Reich and Marietje Schaake, who guide learners through the complexities of how technology influences voter behavior and public opinion. The course is structured into several key modules, each addressing different aspects of technology’s role in democracy.
Course Overview
One of the standout features of this course is its timely relevance. With the 2020 election being unprecedented in many ways, the course delves into how various digital tools and platforms were leveraged by different parties to mobilize voters. It emphasizes the importance of well-informed citizens in a thriving democracy, making it a must-take for anyone interested in the future of governance in the United States.
Syllabus Highlights
The syllabus is rich with engaging topics:
- Introduction: An overview of the major themes and questions surrounding democracy and technology.
- Election Administration in the COVID-19 Era: Insights into the challenges faced by election jurisdictions in implementing new technologies during a pandemic, featuring experts like Tiana Epps-Johnson.
- Technology and the Digital Public Sphere: Exploration of how digital tools shape public discourse, with contributions from notable figures such as Joan Donovan.
- Where Speech and Tech Policy Collide: A discussion on the tensions between content moderation and public policy, featuring insights from Evelyn Douek.
- Confronting Misinformation and Disinformation: A critical look at how misinformation was tackled in the 2020 election compared to 2016, with experts like Alex Stamos.
Why You Should Enroll
This course is not just for political science majors; it is relevant for anyone who uses technology in their daily lives and wants to understand its implications on democracy. The inclusion of guest speakers who are leaders in their fields adds depth and real-world context to the discussions.
Moreover, the course encourages critical thinking about the role of technology in shaping our political landscape, making it an essential learning experience for citizens in a democratic society.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ‘How Technology is Shaping Democracy and the 2020 Election’ is a timely and essential course that equips learners with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of technology’s role in democracy. I highly recommend this course to anyone interested in understanding the future of governance and the impact of technology on our democratic processes.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/technology-shaping-democracy-2020-election