Transforming Tech: Issues and Interventions in STEM and Silicon Valley

Full Episode Transcript: https://americancultures.berkeley.edu/about/berkeley-pedagogy-podcast/episode-2-transforming-tech-issues-and-interventions-stem-and Bringing to the fore massive surveillance networks, playful apps, police checkpoints, and social media campaigns, Professor Abigail De Kosnik's 'Transforming Tech' American Cultures Course (New Media 151AC) takes a critical lens to a collection of high-profile issues within an industry of daunting influence, exposing the underpinnings of the power dynamics at play across issues including border enforcement, algorithmic bias, tech worker activism, misinformation, and more. It culminates in a call to action through creative digital assignments that raise the question of what possible interventions could be introduced to address these issues, the firms’ concentrated control over our futures, and how new media technologies might facilitate alternative collective imaginaries. Reflecting on their experience in 151AC, one student shared their advice for future students, "lean into this incredible learning opportunity. It will teach you to create and thrive in sustainable, inclusive futures." In November 2021, Professor De Kosnik was honored as one of the recipients of the 2021 American Cultures Excellence in Teaching Award.