People and Big Data

3 Credits

Introduces the uses of big data in the social sciences as well as the theories, methods, and skills needed for considering the uses and social implications of big data in society. Also introduces the basic approaches, methods, and ethical concerns in understanding the uses (and misuses) of big data by drawing on traditional and applied social science disciplines. Discussion and reading cover examples of social processes at the macro-level (structures, policies), meso-level (institutions, business), and micro-level of individual perceptions and behaviors. Examine the human implications of the big data revolution: how algorithms and massive data sets enable social networks and improve society while exposing private lives to strangers and reshape the social compact. Includes analyzing how big data is currently being utilized to track and provide insight for solution generation on pressing issues such as the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals.