3 credits
Fall 2026 Lecture Lower Division
This course is an introduction to the politics and policies of data science, “big data,” and artificial intelligence. Students will (1) gain an understanding of how public policy is made, including the role of data in policymaking; (2) learn about whether and what policies govern the use of data and AI in various applications (such as autonomous vehicles, ownership of health care data, etc.); and (3) explore the ethical, legal, and social implications of data science and big data artificial intelligence in society.
Learning Outcomes1Analyze the actors, institutions, and processes in the public policymaking process as it relates to data and artificial intelligence.
2Apply concepts and theories about public policy to policymaking in the areas of in data science, data usage, and artificial intelligence.
3Explain how data is used in the policy decision process.
4Examine and discuss the ethical, legal, and social implications of big data and data science.
5Use relevant information to construct a logical argument and recommendations about the use of social or political data and/or artificial intelligence in society.
made by Purdue students.