OVERVIEW

The course explores computer science from a humanistic perspective, connecting the core principles of the discipline to the cultural and social context that shaped its development.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

This course presents computer science through a humanistic perspective, relating its fundamental concepts with the cultural and social context in which they developed. Alongside essential notions such as information theory, algorithms and distributed systems, the course offers methodology and design tools for communication such as human-computer interaction and artificial intelligence. The main objective of the course is to provide a thorough understanding of computing principles, as well as practical skills for the design of communication plans and tools and to foster collaboration with IT professionals.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

Foster understanding of the theoretical principles of computer science in relation to culture and society: Master the fundamental concepts of computer science (information, algorithm, network, AI) and critically analyze digital technologies in their cultural, social and ethical impact.

Introduce basic tools for the design and analysis of digital communication systems: Use IT tools to support humanities activities (text management, presentations, data processing and visualization).

Getting fully aware of the use of information technology and promote an interdisciplinary approach through collaboration with technology professionals: Collaborating effectively in interdisciplinary teams, with mediation and communication skills with technical specialists. Develop a critical attitude toward technologies, evaluating their potential and limitations in cultural contexts.

PREREQUISITES

No prior technical knowledge is required. A good capacity for critical analysis and an interest in culture and communication are helpful.

TEACHING METHODS

Active lectures and hands-on labs.

Please note that the university laboratory and rooms meet more common accessibility criteria and they can be enhanced with specific aids and supporting technologies to make easy using computers for everyone, according to their specific needs.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

• Introduction to computer science and digital culture
• Information theory and coding
• Algorithms and computational logic
• Operating systems and networks
• Human-computer interaction (HCI)
• Fundamentals of artificial intelligence
• Digital tools for the humanities

The course partially contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals of Agenda UN 2030 No. 10 "Reducing Inequality" and No. 11 "Sustainable Cities and Communities" by increasing people's operational skills in a digital citizenship context.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Snyder, L., Ray, L. H., & Amoroso, A. (2020). Fluency: Conoscere e usare l’informatica. Ediz. MyLab. Con contenuto digitale per accesso online (7ª ed.). Pearson.

Also:

Teacher notes available via Aulaweb.

People who cannot attend lessons will find additional contents making reference to the many links suggested within the notes. 

Please note that the provided learning materials meet more common accessibility criteria, however they can be arranged in different formats, if needed, to improve their ease-of-use, according to each students' specific needs.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

LESSONS

LESSONS START

First Semester

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

FURTHER INFORMATION

Students with disabilities, Specific Learning Disorders (SLD), or Special Educational Needs (SEN) are reminded that, in order to request accommodations for examinations, they must first submit their certification to the University’s Student Inclusion Services for students with disabilities and SLD.

Subsequently, to request exam accommodations, students with a disability or SLD must complete the form available on the following page: Services for students with disabilities or SLD | UniGe | University of Genoa.

Students with SEN, on the other hand, are required to send an email to the course instructor, copying the School Inclusion Coordinator for students with disabilities and SLD (laura.traverso@unige.it) and the Student Inclusion Office (inclusione.studenti@info.unige.it). The email must include:

• the name of the course
• the date of the exam session
• the student’s surname, first name, and student ID number
• the compensatory tools and dispensatory measures deemed necessary and requested

For all students, requests for accommodations must be submitted well in advance (at least 7 working days before the exam date). Late requests may not be accepted.