Welcome to this teaser module, entitled Critical Data Studies and Data Justice. You will have the chance to study two units from this module: Individual Modes of Engagement, and Collective Modes of Engagement.
In these units, you will explore critical issues surrounding power dynamics and ethical considerations in the realm of geographic data and consumer technologies that shape our daily lives.
The first unit begins by outlining some key ethical concerns, such as privacy and security - both from a legal and ethical standpoint, as well as agency and equity – taking into account how the effects of data are unevenly distributed across society.
As you progress, you will gain insights into the valuation and utilization of user geographic data in the marketplace, unravel the workings of targeted advertising, and understand the pivotal role users play as data producers.
The unit then explores several individual modes of engagement with data production and collection, ranging from 'acceptance' to 'active resistance', 'making present', and 'escape'.
The second unit will explore collective modes of engagement, including data regulation and the concept of 'drifting' —a semi-intentional exploration of space to identify places for solidarity or change.
Discover the power of detournement as a tool for repurposing data for political and cultural ends, exploring examples from art to counter-mapping. Uncover the concept of data strikes, where coordinated withholding of user data impacts company profits to drive positive change, exemplified by the #DeleteUber movement.
Throughout the course, learners will be invited to reflect on the context framing these concerns, and how factors of privilege and status affects the feasibility of a particular mode of engagement.
By the end, you will emerge equipped with a nuanced understanding of the power dynamics and ethical considerations surrounding these everyday technologies, ready to critically engage with and influence the evolving landscape in which they're embedded.
Curious about the course? Try this free preview!
Course content
Unit 1: Modes of Individual Engagement
Unit 2: Modes of Collective Engagement
Learning outcomes
- Identify the power relations in the context of everyday geodata technology use
- Recognise ethics concerns that derive from those power relations
- Reflect on the material and social context in which certain technologies are used
- Generate alternative modes of engagement to suit a specific context
- Assess the feasibility and effectiveness of a particular mode of engagement
Questions?
For questions, please email: info@geoversity.io