Software Engineering for Good

Catalog description

This course is for those who wonder how their software skills can be used for the common good, for those who are concerned that software, without conscientious development, can hinder rather than assist human progress. This course will expose the student to a variety of topics associated with the good and the bad of Software Engineering. We will look at how good intentions are not sufficient to ensure good software and how considering processes, principles and ethical implications can lead to more responsible software creation. We will survey Codes of Ethics and software principles and focus on practical associations to developer culture, as well as the tools and the methods by which good practices take effect. The course will also provide opportunities for students to understand artificial ethics and to research disruptive technologies and future trends. Students will work in teams and gain experience in software product ideation, analysis, compliance, and proof of concept while considering ethical underpinnings.