CICS/SPP 590PT

Course Description:

In this class we will explore how well-designed technology regulation leads to robust and sustainable innovations.

This interdisciplinary course, offered in collaboration between Manning College of Information & Computer Sciences (CICS) and the School of Public Policy (SPP) at UMass, explores the dynamic interplay between technological innovation and societal impact. While emerging technologies like AI bring exciting possibilities, they also pose risks and unintended consequences—challenges humanity has faced throughout history with innovations like industrial products that have led to pollution or safety issues.

The course emphasizes striking a balance: fostering creativity and innovation while proactively addressing potential harms. Students will explore methodologies, values, and governance frameworks designed to anticipate and mitigate risks, even when some harms are not foreseeable.

Through this lens, we will examine how technologists, policy experts, and other relevant actors can collaborate to create innovative, resilient solutions that positively shape society and uphold the broader public interest.

Learning Outcomes
After completing this course, students will be able to:

• Understand the foundations of Public Interest Technology (PIT) and its core values.
• Assess how public-interest considerations shape (or fail to shape) technological change and product development.
• Apply key innovation tools—including Design Thinking and Agile—to responsible product design.
• Explain how codified and non-codified governance mechanisms influence technology and innovation.
• Analyze real-world case studies using risk assessment and role-play methods.
• Make ethical, equitable, and professional decisions in developing and deploying computing technologies.

Information for Prospective Students
This class is a three-credit-hours and it will meet twice a week in person.

• CS and Informatics Majors must have junior or senior standing with a grade of C or better in CICS 305. Counts as an elective.
• Counts as an elective for Public Policy major and minor undergrads.
• Counts as a non-course for CICS MS students.
• Counts as a grad-elective for SPP, MPP, and MPPA programs.

Interdisciplinary Instructional Team