CPSC 300 - Challenges of Computer Technology

Catalog Description

An in-depth study of the critical issues related to the computerization of society. Ethical, legal, and moral issues raised by the evolution of computer technology will be discussed.

Prerequisite: advanced standing (3 credits)

Course Outcomes

This course and its outcomes support the Computing Learning Outcomes of Communication and Interpersonal Skills (C&IS) and Ethical and Professional Responsibilities (E&PR). These Computing Outcomes are tied directly to the University Wide Outcomes of Effective Communication, Whole Personality, and Acting Ethically.

Program Objectives Assessed in CPSC 300

Learning OutcomesAssessed Course Objectives
C & IS b. Use written, oral, and electronic communication to convey technical information effectively1. Locate, synthesize and evaluate information to communicate the challenges posed by computer technology through written papers.
LS. Locate, synthesize, and evaluate information to make thoughtful decisions
C & IS b. Use written, oral, and electronic communication to convey technical information effectively2. Communicate the challenges posed by computer technology through oral reports.
C & IS d. Work cooperatively in teams and with others3. Evaluate and communicate the challenges posed by computer technology through classroom peer groups.
LS. Evaluate problems using multiple viewpoints
E & PR a. Determine the economic and organizational effects of information technology on global society4. From an ethical perspective, discuss social, economic, legal, and ethical challenges concerning computer technology such as: privacy of electronic data, intellectual property rights, and copyright protection.
LS. Analyze a contemporary challenge from an ethical perspective.
E & PR e. Recognize the need for continuing professional development5. Identify the importance of professional organizations in life-long career development.

Additional Course Objectives include:

The student will be able to:

  1. List the problems associated with the uses of computer technology in our global society and identify possible solutions to these problems.
  2. Identify the factors affecting security in information systems and the techniques involved in disaster planning and recovery.
  3. Identify the legal issues surrounding privacy of electronic data, and involving electronic information and software management.
  4. Identify the main components of the ACM Code of Ethics.
  5. Recognize the need for continuing professional development.

This is a Goal Course in the Challenges of the Modern Age area of the Liberal Studies Program.