1.     Brief description of aims and content

Considering number of themes already been discussed in the earlier courses of this program, this course will focus on one important theme which is the ethical aspect of using information systems both in public and private spheres. The topics will broadly cover the followings issues: ethics and responsibilities, intellectual property rights, social networking, human aspect of using IT.

2.     Learning Outcomes

A. Knowledge and Understanding

At the end of the programme students should be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of

1. One of the themes in information systems;
2. The use of argument analysis to discuss and critique current research in the field of information systems;

B. Cognitive/ Intellectual Skills/ Application of Knowledge

At the end of the programme students should be able to:

1. Have the ability to independently use argument analysis to evaluate and synthesize knowledge from one of the themes in information systems.

C. Communication/ICT/Numeracy/Analytic Techniques/Practical Skills

At the end of the programme students should be able to:

1. Have skills in how to develop research communications strategies and how to efficiently disseminate scientific research findings within the community and outside the research sphere for inter-disciplinary cooperation and increased visibility.

D. General transferable skills

At the end of the programme students should be able to: 

1. Have skills in how to efficiently disseminate scientific research findings within the community and outside the research sphere for inter-disciplinary cooperation and increased visibility.

3.     Indicative Content 

In the course there will be a set of pre-determined themes that students choose from. The selection of themes is based on on-going research in information systems at Örebro University and can vary between semesters depending on available teacher resources and student interests. Examples of themes:

• IS-evaluation;
• Web Services;
• IS security;
• Agile project management;
• Information and communication for development;
• IT Management;
• Usability

The course consists of three parts.

1) Lectures and seminars with a focus on the argument analysis method.

2) Individual work where the students use argument analysis to analyze selected articles within the selected theme (the theme supervisors select the papers). The analyses of the papers are discussed during seminars. Participation in the seminars is mandatory.

3) Writing a short paper. The students select, formulate and investigate an issue based on the chosen theme (in consultation with the theme supervisor). Argument analysis is used to formulate convincing arguments in a paper.

4.     Learning and Teaching Strategy

Only 18 hours of lectures shall be provided with a significant assignment in built to pass.

This module will be carried forward with all other modules as assignment or mini project whatever is applicable depending on theoretical or practical nature of the modules. The basic strategy is to encourage students to work independently. 

5.     Assessment Strategy

In-course assessments add up to 100% and covers:

• Analysis of Academic Papers: Individual oral presentation during a seminar;
• Using Argument Analysis to Formulate Convincing Arguments: Individual writing of a short paper;

6.     Assessment Criteria:

For the assignment, criteria will be drawn up appropriate to the topic, based on the learning outcomes.