STPS505 KNOWLEDGE, ST IN THE INFO. AGE

Course Objectives

In this course it will be provided an introduction to the issues that knowledge, science and technology shape and are in turn shaped by society. Primary objectives of this course are to become familiar with the literature, critiques of the literature and debates on the Information Age, the role of information technologies in society, various ethical and public policy dimensions of the information society, including work and labor, access and digital divide, democratic uses and gender issues, development and underdevelopment.

At the end of the course the students will comprehend theories of “Information Society” and debates on the “Information Age”.

Course Content

This course focuses on recent trends, new approaches and main challenges in innovation policy-making, governance, policy implementation and evolution. Topics to be considered include the new concepts on innovation and innovation policy (such as inclusive innovation, third generation innovation policy, public innovation etc.) innovation governance, policy-making cycle, evidence-based policy-making, key methods used for the design of policies and policy measures as well as for evolution of policies and measures. The course further focuses on specific examples from a wide range of countries.

Course Learning Outcomes

Course Learning Outcome

Students will be able to learn the problem of technological determinist thinking.

Students will be able to comprehend the premises of the “Information Age” claims.

Students will be able to realize how these premises shape the public policy making processes of science and technology and also work and labor, communication and development.

Students will be able to develop a critical thinking on the relationship between technology and society.