Introduction to Information Studies

This class introduces key issues, concepts, and methodologies of information studies. Students consider questions such as: what does it mean to live in an information society? What are the human and social aspects of the design of technology? How do policy, law, and other social forces affect this? How can technology and data be designed for social good? Students will become familiar with the kinds of research and multidisciplinary methods used in information studies. Students leave the course with tools to understand the politics, economics, and culture of information systems; a nuanced understanding of contemporary case studies involving technological systems in society; and a solid foundation for further study in information science.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Be introduced to the technology industry, technology design, human-computer interaction, and ‘the sociotechnical’
• Establish a foundation for succeeding in additional upper-division INFO courses.
• Gain a nuanced understanding of contemporary case studies involving technological systems in society
• Learn tools to understand the politics, economics, and culture of information systems