University of St Andrews - Scotland's first university, founded 1413

Module Catalogue

For information on which modules are specific to your programme, please see : Programme requirements index 2017-2018.

Curricular information may be subject to change.

CS5055 Data Ethics and Privacy

Academic year(s): 2017-2018

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 15

ECTS credits : 7

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 2

There is much interest in both academic research and the mass media about the potential effects of algorithmic decision-making and bias, with stories about manipulation of news feeds affecting elections, discriminatory adverts or search engine results, companies using big data to subvert regulators, and so forth. The aims of this module are to introduce students to the various ethical dilemmas that are arising in our data-driven society, with an emphasis on the ethics of using data science, data protection and privacy, and algorithmic governance.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: Weekly seminars (x 11 weeks), practical classes (x 2 weeks)

Scheduled learning hours: 32

Guided independent study hours: 120

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 100%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 0%

Re-assessment: No Re-assessment available.

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr J D Thomson