Technology and the Public Interest

What it is about

You will learn how technologies can be designed and deployed to serve the public interest. The module provides fundamentals and practical examples on topics such as “data for good”, ethical AI and responsible quantum technologies, so that you can assess opportunities, risks and courses of action and design responsible innovation approaches.

What you will be able to do

• Understanding of public interest and technological opportunities/risks
• Applying theories/frameworks (e.g. ESG, Sustainable Development, Responsible Innovation)
• Assessing ethical, legal, political and social implications
• Designing and endorsing responsible innovation practices
• Interdisciplinary collaboration and practical problem-solving competence

What the module consists of

• LecturesConveying fundamental concepts, theories and case studies
• Exercise/TutorialDiscussions and case studies on applying theoretical knowledge

Teaching method

• Weekly lecturesIntroduction to concepts and current developments
• Tutorials with discussions and case studiesApplying and deepening theory in concrete cases
• Guest lecturesPractice-oriented insights and international perspectives
• Working with primary and secondary sourcesEnables well-founded engagement with topics